The 1983 comedy “Easy Money” stars the iconic Rodney Dangerfield as Monty Capuletti, a baby photographer with a penchant for gambling, drinking, and smoking. Dangerfield essentially plays himself, bringing his signature self-deprecating humor and grumpy persona to the big screen in a performance reminiscent of W.C. Fields. The film follows Monty as he navigates a life-altering inheritance with hilarious consequences.
Inheriting a Fortune, and a Challenge
Monty’s life is turned upside down when his wealthy mother-in-law bequeaths him a $10 million department store. However, there’s a catch: to claim his inheritance, Monty must completely overhaul his lifestyle. He has to quit drinking, gambling, smoking, and womanizing – a monumental task for a man who revels in his vices. The film leverages this premise for a series of comedic situations, as Monty struggles to reform while surrounded by the temptations of his old life.
A Cast of New York Characters
“Easy Money” features a supporting cast of talented New York character actors who bring life to the poker games and bar scenes that dominate Monty’s world. These scenes provide a backdrop for Dangerfield’s comedic brilliance, allowing him to interact with a colorful ensemble and deliver his trademark one-liners. A particularly memorable sequence involves his daughter’s wedding to a Puerto Rican man, culminating in a chaotic and hilarious backyard celebration.
Untapped Potential and Missed Opportunities
Despite its comedic moments, “Easy Money” suffers from a disjointed narrative and underdeveloped subplots. Several scenes feel abruptly cut short, lacking the satisfying payoff that audiences expect. For example, a scene with the Puerto Rican groom sneaking into the bathroom ends without resolution. Similarly, the department store’s fashion show, inspired by Monty’s questionable wardrobe, feels oddly disconnected from the rest of the film.
The film also misses opportunities to fully exploit the comedic potential of Monty’s attempts at self-improvement. Imagine the hilarity of Dangerfield attending an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting! While the film touches upon his struggles, it fails to delve deep enough into the comedic possibilities of his transformation. Furthermore, Dangerfield’s character in “Easy Money” is somewhat toned down compared to his more cynical and hard-edged stage persona. While the premise of a baby photographer with Dangerfield’s temperament is inherently funny, the film doesn’t fully capitalize on the inherent conflict.
A Comedic Legacy
While “Easy Money” may not be a perfect film, it remains a testament to Rodney Dangerfield’s comedic genius. Fans of the comedian will find plenty to laugh at, thanks to his impeccable timing and signature self-deprecating humor. However, the film ultimately falls short of its potential, leaving audiences wanting more. “Easy Money” showcases flashes of brilliance, but a truly great Rodney Dangerfield movie remained elusive. Despite its flaws, “Easy Money” remains a beloved comedy classic for fans of Rodney Dangerfield’s unique brand of humor. The film captures a specific moment in time, showcasing the comedian at the height of his popularity. While not without its shortcomings, “Easy Money” continues to entertain audiences decades later.
