46 Facts About The Movie Raising Arizona

Raising Arizona is a Coen Brothers film.

The creative duo, Joel and Ethan Coen, wrote and directed this comedy masterpiece.

It was released in 1987.

Raising Arizona hit the big screens on March 13, 1987, captivating audiences with its unique blend of humor and heart.

The movie stars Nicolas Cage and Holly Hunter.

Nicolas Cage and Holly Hunter deliver memorable performances as the lovable couple, H.I. and Ed McDunnough.

Ethan and Joel Coen had Cage and Hunter in mind for the lead roles.

The Coen Brothers specifically wrote the roles of H.I. and Ed for Cage and Hunter, knowing their chemistry would bring the characters to life.

The film revolves around a childless couple who kidnaps a baby.

H.I. and Ed, unable to have children of their own, decide to kidnap one of the famous Arizona “Quint”uplets in their quest for parenthood.

Raising Arizona is a black comedy.

The film combines elements of both comedy and tragedy, creating a unique and darkly humorous tone.

The Coen Brothers were inspired by old Warner Bros. cartoons.

The zany and exaggerated physical comedy in Raising Arizona was influenced by classic cartoons such as Looney Tunes.

The famous line, “Son, you’ve got a panty on your head,” was ad-libbed by Nicolas Cage.

Cage improvised this memorable line during the convenience store robbery scene, adding to the film’s comedic charm.

The Coen Brothers co-wrote the script in only three weeks.

Despite its complex plot and quirky characters, the screenplay for Raising Arizona was written in a remarkably short amount of time.

Holly Hunter won the Best Actress award at the 1988 National Society of Film Critics Awards.

Hunter’s exceptional portrayal of Ed McDunnough earned her critical acclaim and recognition in the industry.

Raising Arizona was a box office success.

The film grossed over $29 million worldwide, establishing itself as a commercial hit.

Nathan Jr., the kidnapped baby, was played by quintuplets.

To ensure continuity and share the workload, five different babies were cast to portray the character of Nathan Jr.

The film’s title refers to the setting in Arizona.

The story takes place in the state of Arizona, which provides a unique backdrop for the quirky events that unfold.

Raising Arizona has a distinct visual style.

The Coen Brothers worked closely with their longtime cinematographer, Barry Sonnenfeld, to create a visually striking and vibrant film.

The character of H.I. McDunnough was inspired by real-life criminals.

The Coen Brothers drew inspiration from various notorious criminals to shape the flawed yet lovable character of H.I. McDunnough.

Raising Arizona was the Coen Brothers’ second film as directors.

Following their debut film, Blood Simple, the Coen Brothers impressed audiences and critics alike with their unique storytelling style.

The film features an eccentric supporting cast.

Raising Arizona boasts a talented ensemble cast, including John Goodman, William Forsythe, Frances McDormand, and Trey Wilson, who bring an extra layer of charm to the film.

The Coen Brothers shot the film in Arizona and Utah.

The breathtaking landscapes of Arizona and Utah serve as the backdrop for the quirky and adventurous journey of H.I. and Ed.

Raising Arizona has a memorable soundtrack.

The film’s music, composed by Carter Burwell, perfectly complements the on-screen chaos and injects additional energy into the scenes.

The Coen Brothers faced initial resistance from studios.

Despite their success with Blood Simple, the Coen Brothers had difficulty securing financing for Raising Arizona due to its unconventional storyline.

Raising Arizona has become a cult classic.

Over the years, the film gained a dedicated following, with fans appreciating its quirky humor, unforgettable characters, and witty dialogue.

The Coen Brothers cameo in Raising Arizona.

True to their tradition, the Coen Brothers make a cameo appearance in their own film, this time as a couple at the Arizona adoption agency.

The film’s poster features a collage of character portraits.

The vibrant and eye-catching poster captures the essence of the film’s eclectic cast and captures the audience’s attention.

Raising Arizona explores themes of family and redemption.

Beneath the comedic moments, the film delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the search for redemption.

The film was well-received by critics.

Raising Arizona received positive reviews upon its release, with its offbeat humor and the Coen Brothers’ signature style being praised by reviewers.

The editing of Raising Arizona is fast-paced and energetic.

The film’s editing plays a crucial role in keeping the pace lively, enhancing the comedic timing and amplifying the overall viewing experience.

Raising Arizona tackles themes of identity.

The characters in the film grapple with questions of identity and purpose, adding depth and complexity to the storyline.

The film’s wardrobe reflects the characters’ personalities.

The costume design in Raising Arizona helps visually define each character’s unique traits and reinforces their quirks and individuality.

Raising Arizona blends different genres.

The film seamlessly combines comedy, crime, and drama, offering a refreshing and unpredictable viewing experience.

The film’s script is filled with memorable quotes.

Raising Arizona is known for its witty and quotable dialogue, with lines like “I’ll be takin’ these Huggies and whatever cash you got” becoming iconic.

The cinematography captures the essence of the American Southwest.

The sweeping shots of desert landscapes and vast open skies reflect the unique beauty of the American Southwest and add a sense of grandeur to the film.

The infamous “Yodeling” scene was improvised.

When H.I. McDunnough serenades Ed with a yodeling performance, it was Nicolas Cage’s spontaneous decision to showcase his yodeling skills.

The film explores the concept of second chances.

Raising Arizona emphasizes the idea that redemption and second chances can often be found in the most unexpected situations.

The Coen Brothers wrote Raising Arizona specifically for Nicolas Cage.

Impressed by Cage’s performance in Peggy Sue Got Married, the Coen Brothers tailored the role of H.I. McDunnough to match Cage’s unique screen presence.

Holly Hunter won the Best Actress award at the 1987 National Board of Review Awards.

Hunter’s portrayal of Ed McDunnough was widely acclaimed, earning her prestigious accolades and recognition from critics.

The film’s opening credits feature a lengthy chase sequence.

Raising Arizona wastes no time in immersing audiences into its fast-paced and exhilarating world with a thrilling chase scene that sets the tone for the rest of the film.

The Coen Brothers drew inspiration from B-movies and pulp fiction novels.

Their love for unconventional storytelling and unique characters can be traced back to their fascination with B-movies and pulp fiction.

The film tackles the theme of societal pressures.

Raising Arizona explores the pressures and expectations placed on individuals by society and how they can influence their choices and actions.

The Coen Brothers’ use of visual humor is evident throughout the film.

From slapstick comedy to clever visual gags, Raising Arizona is filled with moments that will make you laugh out loud.

The film’s final chase scene is an homage to classic Westerns.

Raising Arizona pays tribute to the Western genre with its fast-paced and action-packed climax, featuring a dramatic showdown between the characters.

Raising Arizona explores themes of fate and destiny.

Throughout the film, the characters grapple with the idea of their lives being predetermined by fate and the power of making their own choices.

The soundtrack features a mix of genres.

The music in Raising Arizona spans various genres, including country, folk, and even a memorable yodeling performance.

Raising Arizona has a distinct visual color palette.

The Coen Brothers, together with their cinematographer, used bold and vibrant colors to create a visually striking world that enhances the film’s comedic elements.

The film’s dialogue is filled with regional dialects.

Raising Arizona features a mix of regional accents and dialects, bringing an authenticity and richness to the characters’ conversations.

Raising Arizona has become a beloved cult classic over the years.

The film’s unique blend of humor, memorable characters, and offbeat storytelling has made it a favorite among cinephiles and comedy enthusiasts.

Raising Arizona showcases the Coen Brothers’ distinctive style.

The film is a testament to the Coen Brothers’ ability to create original and unconventional stories, filled with memorable characters and thought-provoking themes.

There you have it, 46 fascinating facts about the movie Raising Arizona. This cult classic continues to entertain and captivate audiences with its humor, unique characters, and memorable moments. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, Raising Arizona is a must-watch for any movie lover.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Raising Arizona” is a beloved cult classic that has captivated audiences with its quirky characters, comedic storylines, and unique visual style. With its stellar performances, zany humor, and memorable dialogue, it has earned its place in the pantheon of great comedy films. Whether you’re a fan of the Coen Brothers’ distinct filmmaking style or simply enjoy a good comedy that pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling, “Raising Arizona” is a must-watch movie that will leave you laughing and entertained.

FAQs

Q: Who directed “Raising Arizona”?

A: “Raising Arizona” was directed by Joel Coen and written by Joel and Ethan Coen, who are collectively known as the Coen Brothers.

Q: When was “Raising Arizona” released?

A: The film was released on March 13, 1987.

Q: Who are the main cast members of “Raising Arizona”?

A: The film stars Nicolas Cage as H.I. McDunnough, Holly Hunter as Edwina “Ed” McDunnough, and John Goodman as Gale Snoats.

Q: What is the storyline of “Raising Arizona”?

A: The film follows the tale of H.I. McDunnough, a repeat offender who marries a police officer named Edwina. When they discover they cannot have children, they decide to kidnap one of the famous Arizona Quintuplets, setting off a hilarious chain of events.

Q: Is “Raising Arizona” considered a comedy?

A: Yes, “Raising Arizona” is primarily considered a dark comedy, blending elements of crime, romance, and absurd humor.

Q: What is the runtime of “Raising Arizona”?

A: The film has a runtime of approximately 94 minutes.

Q: Did “Raising Arizona” receive any awards or nominations?

A: Although “Raising Arizona” did not receive any major awards, it has gained a devoted following over the years and is highly regarded for its unique storytelling and comedic performances.

Q: Is “Raising Arizona” suitable for all audiences?

A: While the film is rated PG-13, it contains some adult language and comedic violence, so parental guidance is advised for younger viewers.