Written by Gertrudis Stotts
Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
The Ice Harvest is a gritty and darkly comedic crime film that was released in 2005. Directed by Harold Ramis and based on the novel of the same name by Scott Phillips, the movie tells the story of Charlie Arglist, a mob lawyer played by John Cusack, who teams up with his friend, played by Billy Bob Thornton, to steal a large sum of money on Christmas Eve. As with any crime caper, things quickly spiral out of control, leading to a series of unexpected and chaotic events.
From its talented cast to its intriguing storyline, The Ice Harvest is a movie that has gained a cult following over the years. In this article, we will delve into 44 fascinating facts about the film, its production, and the memorable characters that inhabit its world. So, get ready to dive into the frozen underworld of The Ice Harvest and uncover the secrets behind this gripping and darkly humorous thriller.
Key Takeaways:
- “The Ice Harvest” is a darkly comedic crime film based on a novel, featuring a talented cast and a blend of suspense and humor that keeps viewers engaged.
- This cult classic explores themes of betrayal, greed, and redemption, delivering unexpected surprises and a visually stunning experience for fans of dark comedies.
The Ice Harvest is based on a novel by Scott Phillips.
The movie takes inspiration from Phillips’ noir novel of the same name, which was published in 2000.
The film stars John Cusack and Billy Bob Thornton.
Two talented actors joined forces to bring the unforgettable characters of Charlie Arglist (played by John Cusack) and Vic Cavanaugh (played by Billy Bob Thornton) to life.
It explores the criminal underworld of Wichita, Kansas.
The Ice Harvest provides a gritty and darkly comedic look into the criminal activities happening in Wichita during a freezing Christmas Eve.
Harold Ramis directed the movie.
Ramis, known for his work in comedies like Ghostbusters and Groundhog Day, brought his unique touch to this crime-comedy genre.
The film had a budget of $16 million.
Despite being a moderate-budget film, The Ice Harvest managed to create a visually stunning and engaging experience for viewers.
The opening credits sequence was designed by Kyle Cooper.
Kyle Cooper, a renowned title designer, created the stylish and visually appealing opening sequence that sets the tone for the film.
The Ice Harvest had a mix of positive and mixed reviews.
While the film received praise for its dark humor and performances, some critics found the plot to be somewhat convoluted.
It explores themes of betrayal, greed, and redemption.
Beneath its comedic surface, The Ice Harvest delves into deeper themes that resonate with audiences.
The movie has a runtime of 92 minutes.
This compact runtime allows for a tightly paced and suspenseful viewing experience.
The Ice Harvest was released on November 23, 2005.
It hit theaters just in time for the holiday season.
The film takes place over the course of a single night.
The events in The Ice Harvest unfold over one chaotic and fateful Christmas Eve.
The screenplay was written by Richard Russo and Robert Benton.
Known for their work on other successful films, Russo and Benton crafted a compelling script for The Ice Harvest.
Randy Quaid played the supporting role of Bill Guerrard.
Quaid’s portrayal of this eccentric character added an extra layer of quirkiness to the movie.
The Ice Harvest features a memorable bar scene.
One of the most memorable moments in the film is a tense exchange between Charlie and Renata (played by Connie Nielsen) in a dimly lit bar.
The movie’s original score was composed by David Kitay.
Kitay’s haunting and captivating score helps set the film’s mood and intensify the suspenseful moments.
The Ice Harvest blends elements of crime, comedy, and thriller genres.
This unique combination creates an exciting and unpredictable viewing experience.
The film’s tagline is “Thick Thieves. Thin Ice.”
This clever tagline perfectly captures the essence of the movie’s suspenseful and precarious plot.
The Ice Harvest received a nomination for Best Comedy/Musical Film at the Satellite Awards.
Its blend of dark humor and intense moments earned the film recognition from award organizations.
The movie explores the consequences of greed.
Throughout the story, the characters’ pursuit of personal gain leads them down a dangerous path.
The Ice Harvest has become a cult classic among fans of dark comedies.
Its unique blend of humor and crime has given it a dedicated following over the years.
Several scenes in the movie were shot in Kansas.
The filmmakers wanted to capture the authentic atmosphere of the setting, leading them to film on location.
It features memorable supporting characters.
From the lovable Pete Van Heuten (played by Oliver Platt) to the mysterious and dangerous Roy Gelles (played by Mike Starr), the movie is filled with fascinating characters.
The Ice Harvest includes moments of dark comedy.
The clever humor intertwines with the suspenseful plot, providing laughter amidst the tension.
The film presents a morally ambiguous world.
None of the characters in The Ice Harvest are purely good or evil, creating a complex and intriguing narrative.
The Ice Harvest premiered at the Austin Film Festival.
It was well-received by festival-goers, generating buzz before its widespread release.
The movie draws inspiration from classic film noirs.
With its atmospheric setting and morally ambiguous characters, The Ice Harvest pays homage to the noir genre.
The Ice Harvest gained a cult following over the years.
The film’s unique blend of genres and its darkly comedic tone has resonated with fans, turning it into a cult favorite.
It explores the corrupt nature of humanity.
The Ice Harvest shines a light on the inner workings of the human psyche and the lengths people will go to satisfy their desires.
The movie received praise for its screenplay.
The witty dialogue and well-crafted plot were applauded by critics and audiences alike.
The Ice Harvest features a plot filled with twists and turns.
Just when you think you have it all figured out, the movie throws another curveball your way.
The film highlights the consequences of one’s actions.
As the characters navigate the dangerous world they’ve created, they must face the repercussions of their choices.
The Ice Harvest was shot in wintry conditions.
The freezing temperatures and icy landscapes add to the overall atmosphere of the film.
The movie’s cast includes talented actors.
John Cusack, Billy Bob Thornton, Oliver Platt, and Connie Nielsen deliver stellar performances that bring the characters to life.
The Ice Harvest is a dark holiday film.
While it takes place during Christmas time, this is not your typical feel-good holiday movie.
It explores the complexities of trust and loyalty.
The characters constantly question each other’s motives, making it difficult to discern who can be trusted.
The film delivers unexpected surprises.
Just when you think you have the plot figured out, The Ice Harvest throws a curveball your way, keeping you engaged until the very end.
The dialogue in the movie is sharp and witty.
The clever banter between the characters adds another layer of enjoyment to the viewing experience.
The movie balances suspense and humor masterfully.
The seamless blend of tension and comedic relief keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
The Ice Harvest has a unique visual style.
The cinematography and production design contribute to the film’s overall atmosphere, enhancing the storytelling.
The movie’s climax is intense and thrilling.
The suspense builds up throughout the film, culminating in a climactic sequence that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
The Ice Harvest explores the consequences of greed and deception.
The characters’ actions have far-reaching implications that they must grapple with as the story unfolds.
The film uses dark humor to address serious themes.
Despite its comedic moments, the movie touches on deeper issues surrounding human nature and the choices we make.
The Ice Harvest features a talented ensemble cast.
Each actor brings their A-game to their respective roles, creating a dynamic and memorable onscreen chemistry.
The movie has gained a dedicated fan base over the years.
The Ice Harvest continues to captivate and entertain audiences, solidifying its status as a must-watch for fans of dark comedies.
These 44 facts about the movie “The Ice Harvest” give you a glimpse into the intriguing world of this crime-comedy masterpiece. From its talented cast to its seamless blend of genres, it’s no wonder that this film has garnered a cult following. If you’re in the mood for a movie that will keep you guessing and leave you wanting more, don’t hesitate to give “The Ice Harvest” a watch. You won’t be disappointed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “The Ice Harvest” is a fascinating movie that combines elements of comedy, crime, and suspense. With its talented cast, gripping storyline, and dark humor, it captivates audiences from start to finish. The film’s unique setting during Christmas adds an extra layer of intrigue, making it a perfect choice for holiday movie nights.Whether you’re a fan of John Cusack, Billy Bob Thornton, or simply enjoy a well-crafted movie, “The Ice Harvest” is definitely worth a watch. Its clever plot twists, clever dialogue, and memorable characters will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. So grab some eggnog, settle in, and prepare to be entertained by this underrated gem of a film.
FAQs
Q: Who directed “The Ice Harvest”?
A: “The Ice Harvest” was directed by Harold Ramis, known for his work on other comedy classics such as “Groundhog Day” and “Caddyshack.
Q: Is “The Ice Harvest” based on a true story?
A: No, “The Ice Harvest” is not based on a true story. It is an adaptation of the novel of the same name written by Scott Phillips.
Q: What is the genre of “The Ice Harvest”?
A: “The Ice Harvest” is a crime comedy film, combining elements of both genres to create a unique and entertaining experience.
Q: When was “The Ice Harvest” released?
A: “The Ice Harvest” was released on November 23, 2005.
Q: Is “The Ice Harvest” suitable for children?
A: No, “The Ice Harvest” is rated R for strong violence, language, and sexuality. It is intended for mature audiences.
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