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Raising Arizona
1987 94 min United States of America PG-13 16+
★7.4
Comedy, Crime
Director: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
Trailers
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Description
When a childless couple—an ex-con and an ex-cop—take one of a wealthy family’s quintuplets to raise as their own, their lives grow more complicated than anticipated.
Budget:
$6M
US Gross:
$22.85M
Worldwide:
$29.18M
Starring
Nicolas Cage
Actor
Holly Hunter
Actor
Trey Wilson
Actor
Awards
4 nominations total
Key opinion
Raising Arizona is widely regarded as an inventive, energetic early masterpiece from the Coen brothers that balances slapstick comedy, crime parody, and absurdist storytelling. While its rapid-fire pace and stylized characters are praised for their wit and originality, some viewers feel the film eventually veers too far into chaotic farce.
| Acting | Nicolas Cage and Holly Hunter anchor the film with charismatic, standout performances that blend comedic timing with genuine vulnerability. | |
| Direction | The direction masterfully establishes a unique, surreal, and stylish aesthetic that balances absurdist humor with tight, purpose-driven pacing. | |
| Screenplay | The film features sharp, iconic dialogue and a rich array of quirky, memorable character archetypes that define its satirical edge. | |
| Pacing | The frenetic pacing and chaotic farcical energy are highly praised by most, though some critics argue the plot devolves into unmanageable silliness in the final act. | |
| Score | Opinions on the score are divided, with some finding the country-infused soundtrack integral to the film's tone while others describe it as intrusive and strident. | |
| Ending | The ending is a polarizing element, with some viewers interpreting it as a touching, ironic resolution while others find it underwhelming or confusing. |