Ruthless People (1986)

Ruthless People (1986) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online

Ruthless People (1986), directed by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker, is a dark comedy that combines sharp wit with a satirical take on crime and greed. Featuring a star-studded cast including Danny DeVito, Bette Midler, and Judge Reinhold, the film is known for its clever plot and humorous dialogue. It explores themes of betrayal, manipulation, and the farcical consequences of criminal schemes. This review will delve into the film’s key aspects and provide information on where to watch Ruthless People online in the United States.

Plot Summary: A Comedy of Errors

The plot of Ruthless People revolves around Sam Stone (Danny DeVito), a wealthy businessman who is planning to kill his wife, Barbara (Bette Midler), to inherit her fortune. However, his plans are complicated when Barbara is kidnapped by a pair of bumbling criminals, Ken and Sandy Kessler (Judge Reinhold and Helen Slater), who demand a ransom from Sam.

Instead of being pleased, Sam is frustrated because he views the ransom as a hindrance to his plan and also because he’s worried that the ransom money will be used to fund the kidnappers’ less-than-ideal lifestyle. Meanwhile, Barbara, who is far from being a victim, tries to manipulate her captors to escape and get her revenge on Sam. The film follows the chaotic and humorous consequences that arise from this tangled web of deceit and greed.

Why Ruthless People (1986) Stands Out

1. Dark Comedy with Sharp Satire
   Ruthless People is celebrated for its dark humor and satirical take on crime and morality. The film’s witty dialogue and absurd situations highlight the greed and manipulation of its characters, offering a humorous critique of human nature.
2. Strong Performances
   The cast delivers memorable performances, with Danny DeVito’s portrayal of the scheming Sam Stone standing out. Bette Midler provides a strong performance as Barbara, adding depth to her character’s role as both a victim and a schemer. The supporting cast, including Judge Reinhold and Helen Slater, also contribute to the film’s comedic success.
3. Clever Plot and Dialogue
   The screenplay, written by the Zuckers and Abrahams, is known for its clever plot twists and sharp dialogue. The film’s comedic timing and well-crafted story keep the audience engaged and entertained throughout.
4. Innovative Direction
   Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker’s direction brings a unique blend of humor and suspense to the film. Their ability to balance the dark and comedic elements enhances the overall impact and entertainment value of the movie.
5. Cult Classic Appeal
   Ruthless People has achieved cult classic status due to its distinctive humor and memorable performances. It remains a favorite among fans of dark comedies and is often cited for its clever writing and entertaining plot.

Where to Watch Ruthless People (1986) Online in America

For those interested in watching Ruthless People, here are some options for streaming or renting the film online in the U.S.:

Streaming Services

1. Hulu
   Ruthless People is available for streaming on Hulu. If you have a Hulu subscription, you can watch the film as part of their library. Hulu subscriptions start at $7.99 per month with ads or $14.99 per month for an ad-free experience, with the option to try a 30-day free trial.

Rental and Purchase Options

1. Amazon Prime Video
   The film is available for rent on Amazon Prime Video for $3.99 or for purchase at $12.99. If you have an Amazon Prime subscription, you may also have access to the film through Prime Video’s library.
2. Apple iTunes
   On Apple iTunes, you can rent Ruthless People for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99. It can be streamed on Apple devices or through the Apple TV app.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
   On Google Play, you can rent the film for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99. It is available for streaming on Android devices, Chromecast, and through the Google Play app.
4. Vudu
   Vudu offers the film for rent at $3.99 and for purchase at $12.99. Vudu provides high-definition streaming options, making it a good choice for quality viewing.
5. YouTube Movies
   You can rent Ruthless People on YouTube Movies for $3.99, or purchase it for $12.99. This is a convenient option for those who prefer to stream via YouTube.
6. Microsoft Store
   On the Microsoft Store, you can rent the film for $3.99 or buy it for $12.99. This option is suitable for Windows and Xbox users.

Conclusion

Ruthless People (1986) is a standout dark comedy that combines sharp satire with a clever plot and memorable performances. Directed by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker, the film offers a humorous and critical look at crime and greed, showcasing the talents of its star-studded cast.

For those interested in experiencing this entertaining film, it is available for streaming on Hulu and for rent or purchase on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple iTunes, and Google Play. Enjoy the comedic chaos and sharp satire of Ruthless People and see how a web of deceit and ambition unfolds in this classic comedy.