Written by Hayley Loveland
Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Intolerable Cruelty, released in 2003, is a comedy film directed by Joel and Ethan Coen. Starring George Clooney and Catherine Zeta-Jones, this movie takes a hilarious and satirical look at the world of divorce and greed. With its witty dialogue, clever plot twists, and memorable characters, Intolerable Cruelty has become a beloved film among audiences. In this article, we will delve into 33 fascinating facts about this comedic gem. From behind-the-scenes trivia to interesting tidbits about the cast, you will discover a wealth of information that will enhance your viewing experience. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and get ready to learn more about the delightful and unpredictable world of Intolerable Cruelty!
Key Takeaways:
- Intolerable Cruelty is a star-studded romantic comedy with a twist of courtroom drama, featuring George Clooney and Catherine Zeta-Jones in a battle of wits and love.
- The movie combines humor, romance, and legal complexities, making it a delightful and unpredictable film with a memorable conclusion that will leave you entertained and wanting more.
The Movie Poster
The original movie poster for Intolerable Cruelty features George Clooney and Catherine Zeta-Jones, capturing the chemistry and charm of their characters.
The Director
Intolerable Cruelty was directed by none other than the Coen brothers, known for their unique and quirky storytelling style.
An Unusual Romantic Comedy
This film combines elements of romantic comedy with the complexities of a courtroom drama, creating a one-of-a-kind viewing experience.
The Lead Roles
George Clooney portrays the charismatic divorce attorney, Miles Massey, while Catherine Zeta-Jones plays the beautiful and cunning Marilyn Rexroth.
A Star-Studded Cast
In addition to Clooney and Zeta-Jones, Intolerable Cruelty features an ensemble cast including Billy Bob Thornton, Geoffrey Rush, and Cedric the Entertainer.
The Oscar-Winning Writers
The screenplay for Intolerable Cruelty was written by the Coen brothers, who won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for another one of their films, Fargo.
A Box Office Success
Owing to its star power and captivating storyline, Intolerable Cruelty grossed over $119 million worldwide at the box office.
Filming Locations
The movie was primarily filmed in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, capturing the glitz and glamour of these iconic cities.
The Divorce Capital
The storyline revolves around the divorcing couples who hire the services of Miles Massey, set in Los Angeles, known as the “divorce capital” of the world.
A Classic Coen Brothers Tale
Intolerable Cruelty is another fine example of the Coen brothers’ unique storytelling style, blending humor, wit, and unexpected twists.
The Talented Composer
The film’s musical score was composed by Carter Burwell, who has collaborated with the Coen brothers on numerous other films throughout their careers.
Nominated for a Golden Globe
Catherine Zeta-Jones received a Golden Globe nomination for her portrayal of Marilyn Rexroth in Intolerable Cruelty.
The Love Triangle
The movie revolves around a complex love triangle between Miles Massey, Marilyn Rexroth, and Howard Doyle (played by Billy Bob Thornton).
A Battle of Wits
Intolerable Cruelty showcases the battle of wits between Miles Massey and Marilyn Rexroth as they try to outsmart each other.
The Pre-Nup Agreement
The concept of prenuptial agreements plays a significant role in the movie, highlighting the complexities and legalities of modern relationships.
The Hilarious Supporting Characters
The film introduces us to a range of colorful and eccentric supporting characters, adding comic relief to the overall storyline.
A Mix of Genres
Intolerable Cruelty seamlessly blends elements of comedy, romance, and courtroom drama to create a unique and entertaining film.
The Signature Coen Brothers Humor
The movie is filled with the Coen brothers’ trademark dark humor and clever dialogue, keeping the audience entertained throughout.
The Importance of Trust
Intolerable Cruelty delves into themes of trust and deception, challenging the characters and their relationships.
The Cinematic References
The film pays homage to classic Hollywood cinema, with references to old movies scattered throughout the storyline.
A Charming and Cynical Story
Intolerable Cruelty strikes a balance between charming romantic moments and cynical views on love and relationships.
The Comedic Timing
The film showcases the Coen brothers’ impeccable comedic timing, delivering laughs at exactly the right moments.
The Costume Design
The costumes in Intolerable Cruelty, designed by Mary Zophres, perfectly capture the elegance and style of the characters.
A Twisty Plot
Intolerable Cruelty keeps viewers guessing with its unexpected plot twists and turns, making it a delightfully unpredictable film.
The Classy Set Design
The film’s production design captures the sophistication and opulence of the characters’ lifestyles, enhancing the overall visual experience.
A Satirical Take on Marriage
Intolerable Cruelty satirizes the institution of marriage, highlighting the absurdities and idiosyncrasies found within romantic relationships.
The Iconic Scene
The courtroom scene in Intolerable Cruelty is a standout moment, filled with tension, drama, and unexpected outcomes.
A Touch of Film Noir
The movie incorporates elements of film noir, with its intricate plot, morally ambiguous characters, and stylized cinematography.
The Soundtrack
The film features a delightful soundtrack, combining classic tunes with original scores to enhance the overall viewing experience.
A Lesson in Adaptability
Intolerable Cruelty teaches us the importance of being adaptable and ready to embrace unexpected circumstances that arise in life.
The Power of Love
While the movie explores the cynical aspects of relationships, it also highlights the redemptive power of love.
Quotable Lines
Intolerable Cruelty is filled with memorable and quotable lines that have become fan favorites over the years.
A Memorable Conclusion
The ending of Intolerable Cruelty leaves viewers with a satisfying and memorable conclusion, wrapping up the story with a twist.
There you have it – 33 fascinating facts about the movie Intolerable Cruelty. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies or courtroom dramas, this film offers a unique blend of genres and an entertaining storyline that will keep you engaged from start to finish. So, grab a copy of Intolerable Cruelty and enjoy a delightful movie night!
Conclusion
Intolerable Cruelty is a remarkable movie that combines elements of romance, comedy, and a touch of satire to deliver an engaging and entertaining story. With its stellar cast, sharp writing, and expert direction, the film succeeds in captivating audiences from start to finish.
Throughout the article, we have explored 33 fascinating facts about Intolerable Cruelty, from behind-the-scenes secrets to the film’s critical reception and box office success. We’ve discovered the incredible chemistry between George Clooney and Catherine Zeta-Jones, witnessed the skillful storytelling of the Coen brothers, and dove into the intricate plot twists that make this movie so memorable.
Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies, Coen brothers films, or simply enjoy well-crafted storytelling, Intolerable Cruelty is a must-watch. It will make you laugh, keep you guessing, and leave you feeling thoroughly entertained. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy this modern classic!
FAQs
Q: Who directed Intolerable Cruelty?
A: Intolerable Cruelty was directed by the renowned filmmaking duo, Joel and Ethan Coen, known for their unique style and diverse filmography.
Q: Is Intolerable Cruelty based on a true story?
A: No, Intolerable Cruelty is a fictional story written by the Coen brothers and inspired by the works of classic Hollywood screwball comedies.
Q: When was Intolerable Cruelty released?
A: The movie was released on October 10, 2003, in the United States.
Q: Who are the main cast members of Intolerable Cruelty?
A: The film stars George Clooney as Miles Massey and Catherine Zeta-Jones as Marilyn Rexroth, with supporting roles played by Geoffrey Rush, Cedric the Entertainer, and Edward Herrmann.
Q: What genre does Intolerable Cruelty belong to?
A: Intolerable Cruelty is primarily a romantic comedy, with elements of satire and farce.
Q: Did Intolerable Cruelty receive positive reviews?
A: The movie received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its humor and performances, while others found it lacking compared to the Coen brothers’ previous works.
Q: Was Intolerable Cruelty a commercial success?
A: While it didn’t reach the same level of financial success as some of the Coen brothers’ other films, Intolerable Cruelty performed reasonably well at the box office, grossing over $120 million worldwide.
Q: Are there any memorable quotes from Intolerable Cruelty?
A: Yes! Some memorable quotes include “Love can’t be bought, court jester. It can only be given.”, “I worked my way up from nothing to a state of extreme poverty.”, and “I have no recourse but to pistol whip you, sir.
Was this page helpful?
Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.