Day 174: Manhattan Murder Mystery

518B34J685LManhattan Murder Mystery is one of my favorite Woody Allen films.

It’s not a heavy movie.

It’s not an essential movie.

It’s just a fun movie.

I like the pairing of Alan Alda, Diane Keaton, and Anjelica Huston with Woody.

It’s the first time Diane Keaton has appeared in a Woody Allen film since Manhattan in 1979. (Interesting that the word “Manhattan” is in both titles featuring Keaton.) It’s Alan Alda’s second appearance in a Woody film, the first being Crimes and Misdemeanors.

Here’s the plot of this 1993 comedy, the 23rd Woody directed:

Woody and Diane are married. They live in an apartment across the hall from an elderly couple whom they befriend. One day, the old woman drops dead from a heart attack. Diane suspects foul play, however, and enlists the help of friend Alan Alda who, together, ratchet up their suspicions until they’re convinced the old man murdered his wife.

Did he? Or didn’t he?

Ahh, that’s why it’s called Manhattan Murder Mystery.

And what’s going on between Alda and Keaton? Flirting, definitely. But will it progress beyond that?

Another mystery in the making.

Apparently, Mia Farrow was slated to co-star in this movie. But the “scandal” erupted (Woody fell for Mia’s adopted daughter Soon-Yi Previn).

It’s good that Keaton is back. Their chemistry is great. And I was getting tired of Farrow. She’s a good actress. But I prefer Keaton. Plus, when she and Woody get riffing about therapists and neuroses, and crazy-making, it’s a hoot. Reminds me of Annie Hall.

Incidentally, I bought my copy of the DVD when I was in Manhattan many, many years ago. I figured nothing would remind me of Manhattan like Manhattan Murder Mystery. Besides, I already owned Manhattan.

Woody was 58 when this movie was released.

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