His secretary was played by his real sister Joan Cusack. Always liked this movie. Plus I'm an 80s music nut and the music in this movie is awesome. This movie has two soundtracks because it had so much music. Take care Cassie
This is one of my favorite movies. The best explanation I've heard about why this movie is amazing is that there's not subtext, there is only text. Everyone says exactly what they're thinking, but not everyone is listening to them.
I think it also helps that the main cast are all established actors who are both playing to and playing opposite their established types. GPB came out the same year as Con Air, so Cusack was known better for his teen romances than as an action star. Aykroyd is probably more serious here than any major film previously, and so on. It helps them feel more realistic despite the weirdness because no one is just a stock character.
@@cmlemmus494Hence the importance of the scene when Dan Ackroyd is talking about the drug cocktail that he takes on the advice of his "neurophysiologist". It's not necessary for the plot, but it shows you what a weirdo he is.
I've absolutely adored this movie ever since it came out. John Cusack, his sister, Minnie Drive, Dan Ackroyd, Alan Arkin - everyone was perfect. The writing and direction were spot on. Possibly the best dark RomCom ever made.
No one EVER makes movies like this any more. Clever, quick, witty, funny, dark and of course, original. When I first saw this I was surprised how good it was.
Yeah an old co-worker of mine about 10 years ago told me about this movie and I managed to catch it on TV one day and it was freaking great. Never saw it as a romantic comedy but him being a hitman and the school hallway locker fight scene always made me remember this film.
I like to think of John Wick as a secret sequel to this film. Martin Blank does the impossible task after this movie to get the high table off his back after what he did in this movie. It doesn't really work because later movies give John more of a back story but it works for the first one in my opinion.
For anybody who might be trying to puzzle out the Joe Strummer song that plays when Cusack is at his dad's grave, it's not a song - it's a piece of the film's soundtrack that Strummer wrote a few lines for. You're welcome!
One of the greatest martial artists of all time. Not just in movies but in life as a teacher and master. Duff McKagan's book dedicates a lot of time to how Benny completely changed Duff's life after a lifetime of monumental substance abuse.
@user-tsBig7dr7r He was the one who says ''IT IS I !!'' and fights John during the High School reunion , Highly decorated kickboxing champion and fight director , he 's in the movie Wheels on Meals with Jackie Chan they have a fight scene together that's considered one of the best ever put to film . 👊
That reaction made me so so happy. This is one of my favorite movies just the perfect balance of dark humor, romance, and personal growth. Cusac was absolutely born to play this role, you nailed that. I’m so happy you enjoyed it.
John was 30 when he filmed this and 31 when it was released...so just a couple of years past his 10 year HS reunion. Also, the reason you see John and Jeremy Piven in movies together all of the time is because they were real life best friends who grew up together outside of Chicago. Jeremy's parents owned a theater workshop in Evanston, Illinois and it's where they both trained to be actors growing up. Jeremy played Ari Gold on the TV show Entourage and it's probably his most famous role.
@@ct6852 I see nothing about casting, but Jeremy's parents were also founders of the Playwright Club, a forerunner to the Second City comedy troupe. Aiden Quinn, Adam McKay, and Shira Piven were other students of their acting workshop.
High Fidelity is such an interesting movie. It has one of the most *_unlikable_* protagonists in any romantic comedy ever, and yet John Cusack is so likable that you somehow end up rooting for him.
John Cusack plays such a scumbag in High Fidelity, I have no idea why his girlfriend takes him back. It seems like everyone grows and changes EXCEPT John Cusack's character.
This is a great movie. I like how he tells people what he really does for a living and no one believes him. BTW some trivia- the fight scene between Martin and the ghoul looked very good. The reason is John Cusack is actually a black belt in real life, and the actor playing the ghoul is Cusack's trainer.
Because it the kind of line you use to blow people off when you don't want to reveal anything. Being old friends they would know to not ask further questions. I don't know why people make so much of it apart from the irony of it.
In "Say Anything" where Cusack as Lloyd Dobler says the following, the hitman job actually fits. “I don't want to sell anything, buy anything, or process anything as a career. I don't want to sell anything bought or processed, or buy anything sold or processed, or process anything sold, bought, or processed, or repair anything sold, bought, or processed.”
And Minnie Driver was around 26, so two years too _young_ if anything. (even Jeremy Piven, who genuinely _does_ look older than the part IMO, was only about 31)
50 years earlier Cary Grant did a dark comedy called "Arsenic and Old Lace." This movie is SO in that tradition. Every once in a while we are treated to a fast talking witty masterpiece. And "Grosse Point Blank" is that masterpiece. The dialogue is exceptional, as every character no matter how minor gets a moment or laughable line. By the way, John Cusack's sister Joan is the wonderfully quirky secretary. Every once in a while we get a movie that is so over the top, that only the perfect casting can make it work. Here we have the perfect casting. Perfect dialogue. And the perfect amount of silliness to make us laugh and smile throughout. Grosse Point Blank is a masterpiece!
I love this movie, I love this soundtrack, I really enjoyed your reaction Cassie....but....crap!!! Now I am going to end up reading every single freaking comment Cheers :)
Arsenic & Old Lace is great, though it does take place at Halloween, so maybe it's a Halloween movie? I also think that His Girl Friday is also a great Carey Grant fast talking movie. Not really a dark comedy; but, in my opinion, one of the greatest screwball comedies.
A decade earlier John Cusak starred in 5 teen comedies.Obviously, Say Anything is the best known and a great romantic comedy. But my favorite is The Sure Thing! Hilarious romantic comedy!
I'd have to say a tie between Better off Dead and One Crazy Summer, maybe leaning toward Better Off Dead I quote "I want my two dollars" alllll the time lol
Alan Arkin was the grandpa in Little Miss Sunshine!!! Also, if you’ve seen Dharma and Greg, Dharma was in the brace, and Greg’s father was Minnie’s dad. The soundtrack for this movie is fantastic. As always, your reaction was a hoot to watch.
Not at all! This movie is full of gut-busting laugh-out-loud moments, that that is definitely one of them. And of course, the next time he opens the door she proves the gun does work!
Irreverence and dark humor are the keys to my funny bone, and people not reacting to serious/crazy/traumatic situations in an "appropriate" way is my favorite type of comedy. The writing and acting in this is just so great, and the comedic delivery makes this top tier for me. And I will watch Minnie Driver in anything.
John Cusack and I are same age. So grew up with his movies. When this came out my friends and I made sure to see it together and it did not disappoint. Having Joan his sister, who is amazing, and Dan Aykroyd in the movie was just icing on the cake. So many 80s references and of course movie coming out a year after our reunion made nostalgia that much stronger. One of my favorite movies to re-watch.
This is one of those movies that gets better as I get older. The scene with Martin and the baby, with "Under Pressure" straight up made me cry the last time I watched. Also, the Soundtrack? Fahget about it, so gooood.
Agreed. Ironically, Martin Blank in "Grosse Pointe Blank" is arguably a better person than his character in "High Fidelity," and all that guy does for a living is sell records.
@apulrang I don't know about "better person". Martin and Rob are definitely different characters. Rob is just an average guy, trying to figure out what he wants, and takes us along for the ride. Cusack is one of the best for playing flawed but extremely likeable characters.
"They're both so weird, and I like it!" Me too, Cassie. This was one of the first DVDs I ever owned and I wore it out back in the day. I watched this movie 20 plus times. It may not be a romance, but their relationship is what hooked me. I like Debbie's confidence and the way she stands up to Martin. And Martin, while broken, ends up finding redemption by connecting with the one really good thing in his past, Debbie. And the soundtrack rocks. Still love this film.
The teeniest tiniest camera was a Minox. It was a staple of spy movies, and James Bond used one.... which I am sure had nothing to do with why my dad owned one, too.
This came out the year of my 10 year reunion from high school. Luckily, my decade wasn't marred by professional assassin work catching up to me at awkward moments...I'd grown into being the me I was meant to be, and loved the reunion more than I'd ever loved HS. Watching this when it came out made it all click...the sense of peace with constantly becoming the 'next' iteration of our selves and just aiming to be the best one possible. The soundtrack kills...just a perfect love letter to a moment and a place that can never really be again...except in our cherished memories. Time heals all wounds, and even the things I remember hating have slowly faded into things that were essential components of a time and place...and I wouldn't change them now, even if I could.
This is one of my FAVORITE movies. The soundtrack is incredible, and the script is hilarious. This movie is so quotable! 10/10 for sure. You can't go home, but I guess you can shop there. Love the reaction, Cassie!
I love this movie!!!! One of my fondest memories is renting this on VHS from Blockbuster and watching with my mates during a sleepover. Great times. Thank you for the nostalgia.
I feel that way about this one and also especially about "With Honors," which literally it seems everyone is completely forgotten about, and it was a phenomenal movie
One of the most underrated films I've seen. This was one a friend and me watched on 'National Cinema Day' in England (£1 a film) and watched just to past time... It was, and still is, the best film we watched and couldn't stop talking about. 25 years later nothing has changed. Good to see it's coming back to a new audience.😊
Cassie, I've been waiting/hoping to "watch this movie with you" as it's one of my all time favorites. Everyone in this movie was at the top of their game making this as if they were all born to be in this movie. John not only had family members as side characters but also real life friends such as Jeremy Piven (they grew up together in Chicago) Anyway, a great pick, great movie and great reaction. Thanks for sharing as always. 😊
apropos of nothing I never noticed before when he looks at the target and says "youre a handsome devil, whats your name" thats what his mom asked him in the convalescent home.
One of my favourite 90's movies and it gets overlooked so much mainly because the mid to late 90's was such a golden period for unique original films that eventually some got forgotten
I love that there are 4 Cusacks in this film. Obviously Jon and Joan who plays his assistant. Then there is Bill who plays a waiter and Ann who plays the drunk woman who comes up to Jon and Debbie when they are in the Hippo club. For years I was under the impression that another Cusack sister played the woman at the reunion who had the baby but I dont' see that in the IMDB credits so I guess it's only 4
One of my favorite movies of all time. The writing, acting, direction, and music all work so well. I saw this in theaters when it came out in 1998 and loved it. It was very of its time, very much a satire of other pulpy 90s action movies - basically it's a rom-com set in the Tarantino universe - and yet I think it turned out pretty timeless, too. Great reaction, as always!
This was a frequent watch for me around the time I graduated high school, first because of the soundtrack and then because it’s a hilarious movie. But it’s been over 25 years since then and I’d forgotten about it. Great to revisit it.
The lady (Marcella) you said that you'd seen in so many other shows.... is John Cusack's sister Joan....as is a another smaller character, Amy, played by Ann Cusack.
You'll enjoy just about anything that has Minnie Driver in it, and the same for Joan Cusack. They are two of the most consistently entertaining character actors ever. Minnie is beyond charming, and Joan is the most likeable goofball. ❤😂
I was in college at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor when this movie came out. Grosse Pointe is just down the road from AA (suburb of Detroit), and one of my friends at U of M was from Grosse Pointe, so it was a very local thing when this got released.
Also, please notice that, during the reunion, while John is holding the baby, Queen and David Bowie's "Under Pressure" song is playing. I'm a Queen fan so I like to point those moments out. 🙂
One of Cusack's finest hours - a great blend of black comedy & rom com sentiment with a perfect '80s jukebox. The moment w/Blank and the baby - *chef's kiss. And yes sister Joan is in many of her bro's films - she's a gem. Great choice & reaction Cass :D xoxo
Probably my favorite movie. It really still holds up. It’s hilarious, has fantastic action, and so strangely hits every emotion. The baby scene w the music is one of my favorite scenes.
When they bottled & wrapped this film is was the assembled best ingredients & every year it’s vintage improves. So many throw away lines that actually have stunning meaning as we age through life. “You can never go home, but you can shop there” Wow 😯 has there been a more brutal line about the fragility of life ?
This was one of my fav movies that I think is super underrated and that not many people seen it. It's like a hidden gem. I love the quirkiness and the weirdness but cute and endearing vibe of the film. Can't explain it. But I'm glad you reacted to this film! 😂👍🎉✨
One of the my favorite films. So fun, tons of style, fantastic cast playing excellent characters, dialogue is on fire, banger of a soundtrack... just awesome. Love this movie.
This is one of those classic movies that was always played on some random cable station, like TBS or USA, on a Saturday afternoon that you always stopped the channel scan and ended up watching no matter how many times you've seen it.
John Cusack should still be sending Anthony Michael Hall Christmas cards. Cusack got his breakout role in Sixteen Candles because Hall recommended him to John Hughes.
Being from the class of '86, this movie really spoke to me on a personal level. It really is about breaking out of the Gen X nihilism and learning to love life.
I loved this film… the chemistry between John and Joan was awesome. I know they’re brother and sister and this isn’t the only movie they starred in together ( they were in 16 candles but didn’t interact) but to see them play off each other was great. My favorite is when she gets the money and is so excited…I think of their characters were written to be brother and sister, I think her reaction would have been the same.
The fact that so many people with such varying tastes like or love this film is a testament to how good a movie it is. You have to appreciate a movie where in the dialogue everyone says exactly what is on their mind. There is no subtext. It moves exactly the right pace, and every scene has a purpose. Your subscribers are thrilled that you enjoyed it. I know I am. You continue to produce great content, with an honesty not unlike the characters in this film. If you like Minnie Driver and you want a delightful romance movie you must watch her break-out role in her first full length film. It’s a small, charming Irish movie called Circle of Friends. She is just wonderful.
In this film, along with Marcella, played by John’s sister Joan, at 16:37, in this scene(although not seen in this edit)… Amy(the drunk former mutual friend of Martin and Debi) here is also played by another sister of John Cusack, actress Ann Cusack
I commented much earlier how this was my favorite movie, but didn't make list specifics to avoid spoilers. One of the best scenes is when he visits his fathers grave. It tells you everything you need to know about his father and their relationship in 20 seconds without a single line of dialogue. That is just brilliant writing.
I LOVE this movie, & I'm so glad you enjoyed it as much as you did! ❤ Alan Arkin, R.I.P., (Dr. Oatman), passed on last year. He had a long illustrious career as an actor, writer & director of stage & screen. The first time I saw him was in the movie "The Russians Are Coming, The Russians Are Coming" (1966), a really good Cold War era comedy. He was the granddad in "Little Miss Sunshine" & the dad in "Edward Scissorhands". That tiny thin camera was an espionage camera. The film was really small but developed to normal size pictures. My uncle, who did alot of work in East Asia came home with one of those once, back in the 60s. Little baby Robbie was Martin's "shakabuku", his "swift spiritual kick to the head that alters your life forever". 👶🏼 I always fantasize about rewriting this movie a bit to be a little more on the dark side. It's a deceptively complex movie, & Martin Blank's character is a criticism on the morality of humans in general. "I'm taking down the office noww..!🤣😂 Cheers! 💐✌🏻
I nearly spit out my drink hearing the list of flicks that were on this poll; lol, at this point I don't even care if you watch them, just hearing you say the words Four Weddings and A Funeral, Moonstruck, and Shakespeare In Love put a smile on my face. At least it means you know they exist. I am glad you have your PIB personal poll for these beauties to appear on. I'm still reeling from you getting to The Replacements, much less knowing it was one that would just have you have a big ole grin on yer face the entire time. I hope your 'assistant' is still checking out these comments, we were told that is where they check for other suggestions... - Priceless (2006) with Audrey Tautou. THE best rom-com I've ever watched. (a close 2nd would be Moonstruck and Four Weddings) - French Kiss - THE best version of Meg Ryan... at her very best! - Stranger Than Fiction - Fabulous Baker Boys - Thomas Crown Affair (1999) - Tin Cup - EdTV
One of my absolute favorite films. I remember seeing it more than once in movie theaters. I had such a crush on John Cusack after seeing this. Not only is he hilarious, he can kick butt if he needs to. He and Minnie Driver were so great together.
This is a little pearl of a movie. Great choice. Coincidentally, I was just added to a Facebook group, which in itself was a surprise as I never go on there. Turns out this group is people from my school year trying to orgnaise a reunion because we'll all be turning 50 in the coming year or so. I muted that group conversation immediately. My idea of hell seeing all those people again after so many years. 😵💫
Great entertainment and fantastic commentary, Miss Cassie. Thank You for all your hard work and for taking the time to bring us smiles and happiness. I always watch the full-length and UA-cam version. It is always a laugh.
The reason why the writing is so good in this movie is because Cusak and three of his childhood friends wrote it. They all had a concept and then each of them took individual scenes to write. They then had to present it to the group and they all had to agree. I guess they were really hard on each other. Like friends are. They know each other so well and it shows in the writing. Always loved this movie.
I wish you mentioned the soundtrack to this movie. One of the best compellations of 1980s music. If you want more high school reunion watch 'Romy and Michele's High School Reunion'. Romy (Mira Sorvino) and Michele (Lisa Kudrow). Another great comedy with a killer 80s soundtrack.
Another great selection for a response video. Your inquiries and observations are an essential, entertaining component. Cusack stated in an interview the script was only completed 80% of the final version. The various performers were given opportunity to add their nuanced inflections to the scenes. An amazing collection of talent!
His secretary was played by his real sister Joan Cusack. Always liked this movie. Plus I'm an 80s music nut and the music in this movie is awesome. This movie has two soundtracks because it had so much music. Take care Cassie
and his other sister, Ann, played the drunk girl in the Hippo Club.
I love how she calls her "Marlene" then "Arlene"- the character is named Marcella lol
Joan Cusack? The famous actor? With the same last name? And they look the same? Is his sister?
@@RootinrPootine Goodness. Get over yourself. Maxstone was informing Cassie, who we could safely assume doesn't know.
@@zondervon she. Doesn’t. Read. The. Comments.
"A psychopath kills for no reason, I kill for money"
That line is so much funnier than it has a right to be! 😅
I always loved "You're overreacting." 😀
A real love letter to Generation X and the 1980s.
I was in college when this came out. Love the soundtrack.
Yes!!
@@3DJapan Ah, then you're a late Gen Xer, born in the late 1970s.
As a member of the class of 86, and a Detroiter, I love this film
Freaking Facts!
One of my favorite movies of all time. It really illustrates the proverb, "Friends help you move, real friends help you move bodies."
This is one of my favorite movies. The best explanation I've heard about why this movie is amazing is that there's not subtext, there is only text. Everyone says exactly what they're thinking, but not everyone is listening to them.
Exactly. There is no obsession with nuance. Its simple, but brilliantly funny with a great sense of time and place.
I hadn't heard that before, but it really fits.
I think it also helps that the main cast are all established actors who are both playing to and playing opposite their established types. GPB came out the same year as Con Air, so Cusack was known better for his teen romances than as an action star. Aykroyd is probably more serious here than any major film previously, and so on. It helps them feel more realistic despite the weirdness because no one is just a stock character.
@@cmlemmus494Hence the importance of the scene when Dan Ackroyd is talking about the drug cocktail that he takes on the advice of his "neurophysiologist". It's not necessary for the plot, but it shows you what a weirdo he is.
I love the subtle touches: LIke when Martin switches seats at the radio station because he can't stand not having his back to a wall
I've absolutely adored this movie ever since it came out. John Cusack, his sister, Minnie Drive, Dan Ackroyd, Alan Arkin - everyone was perfect. The writing and direction were spot on. Possibly the best dark RomCom ever made.
***2 of his sisters!
@@jBownz And one of his brothers, Bill.
@teddyray9336 And you know what the 'J' stands for, right?
Andrew.
That woman in the neck brace at the reunion was a young Téa Leoni, from Deep Impact
@@Mcvthree3 not Tea, Jenna Elfman from Dharma and Greg
No one EVER makes movies like this any more. Clever, quick, witty, funny, dark and of course, original. When I first saw this I was surprised how good it was.
Yeah, you are right. Middle budget movies sort of have been lost. I guess Deadpool, but that was a fluke.
The Nice Guys bombing was a travesty
@@zhaoliang4217 Bullet train fits the bill and was surprisingly good
@@zhaoliang4217 "Deadpool" is just a comic book movie.
Marty taking dudes down with a pen 17 years before John Wick even thought of it.
It is, after all, mightier than the sword :).
John Wick did it with a pen...cil...a freakin' pennncilll.
Yeah an old co-worker of mine about 10 years ago told me about this movie and I managed to catch it on TV one day and it was freaking great. Never saw it as a romantic comedy but him being a hitman and the school hallway locker fight scene always made me remember this film.
I like to think of John Wick as a secret sequel to this film. Martin Blank does the impossible task after this movie to get the high table off his back after what he did in this movie.
It doesn't really work because later movies give John more of a back story but it works for the first one in my opinion.
@@steveleslie2170 The Joker did it before him with the disappearing pencil trick.
For anybody who might be trying to puzzle out the Joe Strummer song that plays when Cusack is at his dad's grave, it's not a song - it's a piece of the film's soundtrack that Strummer wrote a few lines for. You're welcome!
So it's a song.
The assassin in the Ultimart is John Cusack's kickboxing instructor, Benny "The Jet" Urquidez.
I always point people to Wheels on Meals and Dragons Forever for more Benny. He's great vs Jackie Chan.
One of the greatest martial artists of all time. Not just in movies but in life as a teacher and master. Duff McKagan's book dedicates a lot of time to how Benny completely changed Duff's life after a lifetime of monumental substance abuse.
@@LordVolkov
Two great movies. Not quite as good as Project A, but they are up there.
@user-tsBig7dr7r He was the one who says ''IT IS I !!'' and fights John during the High School reunion ,
Highly decorated kickboxing champion and fight director , he 's in the movie Wheels on Meals with Jackie Chan they have a fight scene together that's considered one of the best ever put to film . 👊
John actually mentions Benny in Say Anything. This film always felt a little like an unofficial sequel to that film.
That reaction made me so so happy. This is one of my favorite movies just the perfect balance of dark humor, romance, and personal growth. Cusac was absolutely born to play this role, you nailed that. I’m so happy you enjoyed it.
As a member of the class of 87, this makes me very happy. Also, never let Cassie pick out the potatoes.
🤣🤣🤣
John was 30 when he filmed this and 31 when it was released...so just a couple of years past his 10 year HS reunion. Also, the reason you see John and Jeremy Piven in movies together all of the time is because they were real life best friends who grew up together outside of Chicago. Jeremy's parents owned a theater workshop in Evanston, Illinois and it's where they both trained to be actors growing up. Jeremy played Ari Gold on the TV show Entourage and it's probably his most famous role.
Jeremy Piven appears in several films with John Cusack. Jeremy's parents had an acting/ drama school, and John and Joan went to it.
They became friends through this as I understand it!
Wonder if they're casting directors too?
Jeremy Piven is good in everything, and hasn't aged a day since 'Say Anything', looked 40 in that! 😂
@@DW.Strangeman He's brilliant in the HBO sitcom, "Entourage".
@@ct6852 I see nothing about casting, but Jeremy's parents were also founders of the Playwright Club, a forerunner to the Second City comedy troupe. Aiden Quinn, Adam McKay, and Shira Piven were other students of their acting workshop.
"High Fidelity" is another great JC vehicle. He goes through his love life to make sense of his current relationship. And Joan is in it, too!
Seconded for a reaction. It's one of his best.
So is Jack Black!
I loved that movie. Strangely enough it helped me find humor in a long-term breakup at the time, despite it's rosey outcome.
High Fidelity is such an interesting movie. It has one of the most *_unlikable_* protagonists in any romantic comedy ever, and yet John Cusack is so likable that you somehow end up rooting for him.
John Cusack plays such a scumbag in High Fidelity, I have no idea why his girlfriend takes him back. It seems like everyone grows and changes EXCEPT John Cusack's character.
This is a great movie. I like how he tells people what he really does for a living and no one believes him.
BTW some trivia- the fight scene between Martin and the ghoul looked very good. The reason is John Cusack is actually a black belt in real life, and the actor playing the ghoul is Cusack's trainer.
I'm so glad they didn't use stunt doubles. It makes the fighting more visceral if you know it's being done by the actors themselves.
Because it the kind of line you use to blow people off when you don't want to reveal anything.
Being old friends they would know to not ask further questions.
I don't know why people make so much of it apart from the irony of it.
Kickboxing…sport of the future.
In "Say Anything" where Cusack as Lloyd Dobler says the following, the hitman job actually fits.
“I don't want to sell anything, buy anything, or process anything as a career. I don't want to sell anything bought or processed, or buy anything sold or processed, or process anything sold, bought, or processed, or repair anything sold, bought, or processed.”
Lol. A job repairing things, can you imagine.
This is the ultimate GenX rom-com, and probably the best tribute to the Class of '86 I can imagine.
14:38 John Cusack was 30 when they shot the movie. He actually attended his own ten-year reunion to raise some money for the movie.
And Minnie Driver was around 26, so two years too _young_ if anything.
(even Jeremy Piven, who genuinely _does_ look older than the part IMO, was only about 31)
@@anonymes2884 Indeed. Thinning hair will do that.
50 years earlier Cary Grant did a dark comedy called "Arsenic and Old Lace." This movie is SO in that tradition. Every once in a while we are treated to a fast talking witty masterpiece. And "Grosse Point Blank" is that masterpiece. The dialogue is exceptional, as every character no matter how minor gets a moment or laughable line. By the way, John Cusack's sister Joan is the wonderfully quirky secretary. Every once in a while we get a movie that is so over the top, that only the perfect casting can make it work. Here we have the perfect casting. Perfect dialogue. And the perfect amount of silliness to make us laugh and smile throughout. Grosse Point Blank is a masterpiece!
Arsenic and Old Lace is fantastic. Cassie should definitely check it out. And I agree with you about Grosse Pointe Blank.
I love this movie, I love this soundtrack, I really enjoyed your reaction Cassie....but....crap!!! Now I am going to end up reading every single freaking comment
Cheers :)
Arsenic & Old Lace is great, though it does take place at Halloween, so maybe it's a Halloween movie? I also think that His Girl Friday is also a great Carey Grant fast talking movie. Not really a dark comedy; but, in my opinion, one of the greatest screwball comedies.
@@rudewalrus5636 Arsenic And Old Lace is absolutely amazing, agreed. Needs to be watched!
“You could never go home again Oatman, but I guess you could shop there” 😂😂
When I was a kid my family traveled to my dad’s home town to find his childhood home was torn down and a gas station in its place.
A decade earlier John Cusak starred in 5 teen comedies.Obviously, Say Anything is the best known and a great romantic comedy. But my favorite is The Sure Thing! Hilarious romantic comedy!
One Crazy Summer was probably my favorite.
My fave is still Better Off Dead but I agree that The Sure Thing is better than Say Anything
I'd have to say a tie between Better off Dead and One Crazy Summer, maybe leaning toward Better Off Dead I quote "I want my two dollars" alllll the time lol
No strings attached, no guilt involved., a sure thing.
Can't forget his minor role in Sixteen Candles.
Alan Arkin was the grandpa in Little Miss Sunshine!!! Also, if you’ve seen Dharma and Greg, Dharma was in the brace, and Greg’s father was Minnie’s dad. The soundtrack for this movie is fantastic. As always, your reaction was a hoot to watch.
im i a weirdo that iseem to be the only person that cracks up everytime, when he opens the bathroom door and she huffs out "Make this gun work"
I've always loved "should have brought my gun".. what was that?.... "I said it should be fun"
Yeah in movies everyone always seems to know how to operate any gun. In real life they’re pretty difficult if you’re not familiar with guns.
Not at all! This movie is full of gut-busting laugh-out-loud moments, that that is definitely one of them. And of course, the next time he opens the door she proves the gun does work!
That scene with the baby gets me every time. And Jeremy Piven's character is the best bro ever. Friends help you move, bros help you move bodies. :)
One of my all-time favourite movies. A great John Cusack double-bill with High Fidelity
27:57 Those two are actually master and pupil. Urquidez is a famous martial artist and Cusack studied under him for years.
Irreverence and dark humor are the keys to my funny bone, and people not reacting to serious/crazy/traumatic situations in an "appropriate" way is my favorite type of comedy. The writing and acting in this is just so great, and the comedic delivery makes this top tier for me. And I will watch Minnie Driver in anything.
John Cusack and I are same age. So grew up with his movies. When this came out my friends and I made sure to see it together and it did not disappoint. Having Joan his sister, who is amazing, and Dan Aykroyd in the movie was just icing on the cake. So many 80s references and of course movie coming out a year after our reunion made nostalgia that much stronger. One of my favorite movies to re-watch.
She’s the best side character?!!
That’s Johns sister!!!
And a great actress in her own right. IMHO
First film I remember her from is Toys with Robin Williams , she has been in a lot of good films @@rudewalrus5636
I love how she's smoking a cigarette while pouring gas on the office. It took me 3 watches before I caught that.
This is one of those movies that gets better as I get older. The scene with Martin and the baby, with "Under Pressure" straight up made me cry the last time I watched. Also, the Soundtrack? Fahget about it, so gooood.
Back when CD's were still around I have this CD and I just played that thing every single day all day
A great John Cusack double feature is this and High Fidelity.
High Fidelity is such a great flick
Agreed. Ironically, Martin Blank in "Grosse Pointe Blank" is arguably a better person than his character in "High Fidelity," and all that guy does for a living is sell records.
@apulrang I don't know about "better person". Martin and Rob are definitely different characters. Rob is just an average guy, trying to figure out what he wants, and takes us along for the ride. Cusack is one of the best for playing flawed but extremely likeable characters.
*Personally, MY John Cusack double feature is **_Better Off Dead_** and **_One Crazy Summer._* Both romantic dark comedies.
Nice call !
"They're both so weird, and I like it!" Me too, Cassie. This was one of the first DVDs I ever owned and I wore it out back in the day. I watched this movie 20 plus times. It may not be a romance, but their relationship is what hooked me. I like Debbie's confidence and the way she stands up to Martin. And Martin, while broken, ends up finding redemption by connecting with the one really good thing in his past, Debbie. And the soundtrack rocks. Still love this film.
The movie came out early 1997 and Cusack was born in mid 66 so he was 29 or 30 the year it was filmed (1996).
The teeniest tiniest camera was a Minox. It was a staple of spy movies, and James Bond used one.... which I am sure had nothing to do with why my dad owned one, too.
This came out the year of my 10 year reunion from high school. Luckily, my decade wasn't marred by professional assassin work catching up to me at awkward moments...I'd grown into being the me I was meant to be, and loved the reunion more than I'd ever loved HS. Watching this when it came out made it all click...the sense of peace with constantly becoming the 'next' iteration of our selves and just aiming to be the best one possible. The soundtrack kills...just a perfect love letter to a moment and a place that can never really be again...except in our cherished memories. Time heals all wounds, and even the things I remember hating have slowly faded into things that were essential components of a time and place...and I wouldn't change them now, even if I could.
This is one of my FAVORITE movies. The soundtrack is incredible, and the script is hilarious. This movie is so quotable! 10/10 for sure. You can't go home, but I guess you can shop there. Love the reaction, Cassie!
It was as if everyone had 'swelled'...
Others have already mentioned High Fidelity as a great John Cusack movie, and it was a lot of people's introduction to Jack Black as well.
I love this movie!!!! One of my fondest memories is renting this on VHS from Blockbuster and watching with my mates during a sleepover. Great times. Thank you for the nostalgia.
This is so good. Every year that goes by, more people have forgotten it and it breaks my heart.
I feel that way about this one and also especially about "With Honors," which literally it seems everyone is completely forgotten about, and it was a phenomenal movie
I saw this in the theaters when it came out and it instantly became one of my favorites. John Cusack is criminally underrated.
By far the best John Cusack movie.
Oooooo, I don't know. It's a pretty close toss-up between this and High Fidelity.
You're arguably correct but when I hear the name John Cusack I immediately think of Better Off Dead.
Kind of liked "Better Off Dead" more.. but I have a strange sense of humor.
The Sure Thing
"High Fidelity" is the best. This one is second. "The Sure Thing" is third. "Better Off Dead" is fourth. "Say Anything" is fifth.
One of the most underrated films I've seen. This was one a friend and me watched on 'National Cinema Day' in England (£1 a film) and watched just to past time... It was, and still is, the best film we watched and couldn't stop talking about. 25 years later nothing has changed. Good to see it's coming back to a new audience.😊
Cassie, I've been waiting/hoping to "watch this movie with you" as it's one of my all time favorites. Everyone in this movie was at the top of their game making this as if they were all born to be in this movie. John not only had family members as side characters but also real life friends such as Jeremy Piven (they grew up together in Chicago) Anyway, a great pick, great movie and great reaction. Thanks for sharing as always. 😊
apropos of nothing I never noticed before when he looks at the target and says "youre a handsome devil, whats your name"
thats what his mom asked him in the convalescent home.
One of my all-time favorite movies. Though, when she says to him - "You don't get it. You don't get to have me!" hits hard.
I'm sad this line wasn't in the edit, it's so important
One of my favourite 90's movies and it gets overlooked so much mainly because the mid to late 90's was such a golden period for unique original films that eventually some got forgotten
One of my all time favourites. Dan Akroyd is brilliant, but then add John Cusack and Minnie Driver into the mix, what a combination.
I love that there are 4 Cusacks in this film. Obviously Jon and Joan who plays his assistant. Then there is Bill who plays a waiter and Ann who plays the drunk woman who comes up to Jon and Debbie when they are in the Hippo club.
For years I was under the impression that another Cusack sister played the woman at the reunion who had the baby but I dont' see that in the IMDB credits so I guess it's only 4
One of my favorite movies of all time. The writing, acting, direction, and music all work so well. I saw this in theaters when it came out in 1998 and loved it. It was very of its time, very much a satire of other pulpy 90s action movies - basically it's a rom-com set in the Tarantino universe - and yet I think it turned out pretty timeless, too. Great reaction, as always!
It's very sweet that at the reunion her worry is "I don't think he's ready for this" and not "I think somebody's going to kill him"
john and joan are such a great bro sister combo, wish they did more movies togrther.
This was a frequent watch for me around the time I graduated high school, first because of the soundtrack and then because it’s a hilarious movie. But it’s been over 25 years since then and I’d forgotten about it. Great to revisit it.
The lady (Marcella) you said that you'd seen in so many other shows.... is John Cusack's sister Joan....as is a another smaller character, Amy, played by Ann Cusack.
And his brother Bill was a waiter
I always think of Joan in that weird toy movie with Robin Williams.
You'll enjoy just about anything that has Minnie Driver in it, and the same for Joan Cusack. They are two of the most consistently entertaining character actors ever. Minnie is beyond charming, and Joan is the most likeable goofball. ❤😂
I was in college at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor when this movie came out. Grosse Pointe is just down the road from AA (suburb of Detroit), and one of my friends at U of M was from Grosse Pointe, so it was a very local thing when this got released.
The "I'm drawing a complete " Blank"" guy was Bull Randallman from Band of Brothers.
CUDLITZ!!!!!!! and from walking dead, if Cassie starts watching the walking dead I Swear I'm gonna lose it with excitement
Also, please notice that, during the reunion, while John is holding the baby, Queen and David Bowie's "Under Pressure" song is playing. I'm a Queen fan so I like to point those moments out. 🙂
One of Cusack's finest hours - a great blend of black comedy & rom com sentiment with a perfect '80s jukebox. The moment w/Blank and the baby - *chef's kiss. And yes sister Joan is in many of her bro's films - she's a gem. Great choice & reaction Cass :D xoxo
Probably my favorite movie. It really still holds up. It’s hilarious, has fantastic action, and so strangely hits every emotion.
The baby scene w the music is one of my favorite scenes.
I often do the baby scene when given a chance to hold a baby. :)
When they bottled & wrapped this film is was the assembled best ingredients & every year it’s vintage improves. So many throw away lines that actually have stunning meaning as we age through life.
“You can never go home, but you can shop there”
Wow 😯 has there been a more brutal line about the fragility of life ?
This was one of my fav movies that I think is super underrated and that not many people seen it. It's like a hidden gem. I love the quirkiness and the weirdness but cute and endearing vibe of the film. Can't explain it. But I'm glad you reacted to this film! 😂👍🎉✨
One of the my favorite films. So fun, tons of style, fantastic cast playing excellent characters, dialogue is on fire, banger of a soundtrack... just awesome. Love this movie.
The man responsible for the soundtrack was the late Joe Strummer of the Clash.
So good. comedy and a bit of action without needing a huge budget. I wish they could still do movies like this.
This is one of those classic movies that was always played on some random cable station, like TBS or USA, on a Saturday afternoon that you always stopped the channel scan and ended up watching no matter how many times you've seen it.
John Cusack should still be sending Anthony Michael Hall Christmas cards. Cusack got his breakout role in Sixteen Candles because Hall recommended him to John Hughes.
Joan's in it too, the girl with the headgear
@@O_Towne_Bear I wonder how he and his sister end up in so many of the same movies?
Is that a potato?" With wires coming out of it? 🤣🤣
It helps cook faster since you can't use foil in a microwave!🤪
Being from the class of '86, this movie really spoke to me on a personal level. It really is about breaking out of the Gen X nihilism and learning to love life.
I loved this film… the chemistry between John and Joan was awesome. I know they’re brother and sister and this isn’t the only movie they starred in together ( they were in 16 candles but didn’t interact) but to see them play off each other was great. My favorite is when she gets the money and is so excited…I think of their characters were written to be brother and sister, I think her reaction would have been the same.
Martin poring the bottle on his dads grave is his way of having one last drink with him
The fact that so many people with such varying tastes like or love this film is a testament to how good a movie it is. You have to appreciate a movie where in the dialogue everyone says exactly what is on their mind. There is no subtext. It moves exactly the right pace, and every scene has a purpose.
Your subscribers are thrilled that you enjoyed it. I know I am. You continue to produce great content, with an honesty not unlike the characters in this film.
If you like Minnie Driver and you want a delightful romance movie you must watch her break-out role in her first full length film. It’s a small, charming Irish movie called Circle of Friends. She is just wonderful.
Finally someone mentioned that movie. It had Chris O'Donnell(best known for playing opposite Al Pacino in Scent of a Woman(1992)
“An ideal husband” is the greatest, funniest love story of the 19th century. And Minnie Driver is amazing in it.
Importance of BEing Earnest is another good movie but lacks Minnie Driver
She's great in Good Will Hunting too.
In this film, along with Marcella, played by John’s sister Joan, at 16:37, in this scene(although not seen in this edit)… Amy(the drunk former mutual friend of Martin and Debi) here is also played by another sister of John Cusack, actress Ann Cusack
It has one of the most cool actions scenes ever. Fast and short. 27:54
And after 99 luftballons.
Obsessed by the first kick.
It is so beautiful.
One of the best fight scenes definitely, seems so brutal and realiststic, I think benny told John to actually kick him for real
John's sis Joan (his secretary) is a two-time Oscar nominee for Working Girl and In & Out, both comedies.
Oh wow, In & Out is a wild movie! Haven't thought about that in a long time!
Great 80s soundtrack! Including the Violent Femmes.
I commented much earlier how this was my favorite movie, but didn't make list specifics to avoid spoilers. One of the best scenes is when he visits his fathers grave. It tells you everything you need to know about his father and their relationship in 20 seconds without a single line of dialogue. That is just brilliant writing.
I consider it am unofficial sequel to "Better Off Dead."
Eh. That title goes to One Crazy Summer.
That's kind of an awesome theory...
Or Say Anything.
I LOVE this movie, & I'm so glad you enjoyed it as much as you did! ❤
Alan Arkin, R.I.P., (Dr. Oatman), passed on last year. He had a long illustrious career as an actor, writer & director of stage & screen. The first time I saw him was in the movie "The Russians Are Coming, The Russians Are Coming" (1966), a really good Cold War era comedy. He was the granddad in "Little Miss Sunshine" & the dad in "Edward Scissorhands".
That tiny thin camera was an espionage camera. The film was really small but developed to normal size pictures. My uncle, who did alot of work in East Asia came home with one of those once, back in the 60s.
Little baby Robbie was Martin's "shakabuku", his "swift spiritual kick to the head that alters your life forever". 👶🏼
I always fantasize about rewriting this movie a bit to be a little more on the dark side. It's a deceptively complex movie, & Martin Blank's character is a criticism on the morality of humans in general.
"I'm taking down the office noww..!🤣😂
Cheers! 💐✌🏻
This is possibly my favorite movie of all time! Cant wait to watch this tomorrow! Enjoy! POPCORN! (you'll appreciate that later)
" All Hail Popcorn! "
The NSA agent is played by Hank Azaria who plays several characters in The Simpsons. He was also in The Birdcage.
Glad you got to watch this! Epic movie! FYI, Marcella, his secretary, was played John Cusack's real life sister Joan!
I nearly spit out my drink hearing the list of flicks that were on this poll; lol, at this point I don't even care if you watch them, just hearing you say the words Four Weddings and A Funeral, Moonstruck, and Shakespeare In Love put a smile on my face. At least it means you know they exist. I am glad you have your PIB personal poll for these beauties to appear on. I'm still reeling from you getting to The Replacements, much less knowing it was one that would just have you have a big ole grin on yer face the entire time.
I hope your 'assistant' is still checking out these comments, we were told that is where they check for other suggestions...
- Priceless (2006) with Audrey Tautou. THE best rom-com I've ever watched. (a close 2nd would be Moonstruck and Four Weddings)
- French Kiss - THE best version of Meg Ryan... at her very best!
- Stranger Than Fiction
- Fabulous Baker Boys
- Thomas Crown Affair (1999)
- Tin Cup
- EdTV
Cassie, your reaction of laughter is what keeps me here! Appreciate both you and Carly always!
10yrs!! 10!! 10 yeeeeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaars!! 10 years!!
Joined the army, went into business for myself, became a professional killer!!
When a John Hughes movie goes dark… love this movie!❤
The therapist was also Wynona Ryder's dad in Edward Scissor Hands.😊
One of my favorite off beat dark comedies of all time.
One of my absolute favorite films. I remember seeing it more than once in movie theaters. I had such a crush on John Cusack after seeing this. Not only is he hilarious, he can kick butt if he needs to. He and Minnie Driver were so great together.
The class of 1986. My class. Time sure flies - but this movie is always great!
This is a little pearl of a movie. Great choice. Coincidentally, I was just added to a Facebook group, which in itself was a surprise as I never go on there. Turns out this group is people from my school year trying to orgnaise a reunion because we'll all be turning 50 in the coming year or so. I muted that group conversation immediately. My idea of hell seeing all those people again after so many years. 😵💫
But someone might give you a pen!
Great entertainment and fantastic commentary, Miss Cassie. Thank You for all your hard work and for taking the time to bring us smiles and happiness. I always watch the full-length
and UA-cam version. It is always a laugh.
Omg. I didn’t realize this was happening today. I’ll be back later to watch. I have been waiting for years for this movie.
The reason why the writing is so good in this movie is because Cusak and three of his childhood friends wrote it. They all had a concept and then each of them took individual scenes to write. They then had to present it to the group and they all had to agree. I guess they were really hard on each other. Like friends are. They know each other so well and it shows in the writing. Always loved this movie.
I wish you mentioned the soundtrack to this movie. One of the best compellations of 1980s music. If you want more high school reunion watch 'Romy and Michele's High School Reunion'. Romy (Mira Sorvino) and Michele (Lisa Kudrow). Another great comedy with a killer 80s soundtrack.
Always loved this one. Perfect mix of dark comedy, genuine romantic sparks and a soundtrack that is my childhood.
That creepy hitman guy that he kills with the pen is actually a kickboxer champion who taught John Cusack kickboxing.
Benny the Jet Urquidez!
@smedleybutler1969 yeah, him!
He also was the referee in another classic fighting movie Diggstown definitely worth a watch.
Another great selection for a response video. Your inquiries and observations are an essential, entertaining component.
Cusack stated in an interview the script was only completed 80% of the final version. The various performers were given opportunity to add their nuanced inflections to the scenes.
An amazing collection of talent!
One of Joan Cusack's best side character is an obvious Cassie movie ... "Working Girl!" Has Harrison Ford in it! Think about it! Put it on a pole!
Second that. Seems like one she needs to see.