Throw Momma From the Train - A Movie Review

Let me get this straight. If you kill my enemy, I have to kill your enemy? That’s insane!

Throw Momma From the Train is a 1987 film about a bitter ex-husband who wishes his former wife dead. Overhearing, one of his students proclaims that if he kills his wife than the other has to kill his mother. Will they get what they want in this crazy plan?

Based on a homage to one of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic films, Strangers on a Train, I had a blast watching this film. I could not stop laughing. Billy Crystal and Danny DeVito were the highlights, becoming the ultimate comedic team. Throw Momma From the Train is a great film for all to enjoy.

Billy Crystal and Danny DeVito made an excellent tag team. As two people who are unhappy with their circumstances, they actually help each other out, despite all the calamity they get into. My favorite scene will always be the scene in the kitchen. I rolled around on the floor laughing the first time I ever saw it. They nail comedy.

Larry is seconds away from a vein popping in his head. The best part about any of Billy Crystal’s performances is his blank stare. Even with little expression, you can tell what he is feeling. Being a writer is tough. Larry spending most of the film trying to figure out the beginning sentence of his novel is relatable and humorous.

Danny DeVito’s childlike performance as Owen was an intriguing character choice. His deliveries were over the top. The best part about acting as that we can deliver lines in any fashion. You have to wonder what is going on through Owen’s head for most of the film. Then again, subtleties are the best part.

One moment that completely masters Owen’s entire character is his coin collection. It is one of the most poignant scenes in the film that actually made me tear up. The relationship that he shares with his mother is very important.

The late Anne Ramsey was a dedicated actress. The first time I ever saw Ramsey was in The Goonies. Throw Momma From the Train would not be what it is without her. She did everything to make herself a repulsive woman ordering her son around and barking out insults. Her nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the Academy Awards was well deserved for her portrayal.

Other credits to include are Kim Griest, Kate Mulgrew, Branford Marsalis, Bruce Kirby, Annie Ross, Raye Birk, and special appearances by Rob Reiner and Oprah Winfrey. The students in Larry’s creative writing class were memorable. Small parts are always my favorite. Sometimes they end up being the most memorable.

Comedy is tough to nail. Throw Momma From the Train succeeds in comical delivery, physical comedy, and overall comedic reactions. Black comedy may not be everyone’s cup of tea. The film provides a lot of laughs. And it works effectively. It’s a different kind of comedy that opened the door.

The story was a bit farfetched, but then again a story can be about anything. Writing is a central theme. Don’t think too hard and write whatever comes to mind.

Danny Devito had many hats while working on the film. As the director, producer, and one of the main characters, he did an incredible job. Instead of making the film a direct remake from the famous Alfred Hitchcock film, DeVito creatively changed certain aspects. The ending was very creative.

The whole film is sure to leave you laughing. I recommend Throw Momma From the Train for its memorable acting talents. I could watch it over and over.