I Love You to Death

In Allentown, Pennsylvania, in 1983, Frances Toto tried again and again to kill her husband, Anthony. John Kostmayer built a screenplay out of that real case, and Lawrence Kasdan filmed it as a 1990 American black comedy. The cast he assembled runs deep: Kevin Kline and Tracey Ullman lead it, with Joan Plowright, William Hurt, Keanu Reeves, and River Phoenix around them. The film follows Joey Boca (Kevin Kline), a pizzeria owner in Tacoma, Washington, who habitually cheats on his devoted wife, Rosalie (Tracey Ullman). Upon discovering her husband's numerous infidelities, Rosalie conspires with her mother, Nadja (Joan Plowright), to murder Joey. They enlist the help of inept hitmen Harlan James (William Hurt) and Marlon James (Keanu Reeves), as well as involving the young pizzeria employee Devo Nod (River Phoenix), who secretly harbors feelings for Rosalie. Despite multiple attempts involving poisoning, beating, and even shooting, Joey miraculously survives each assassination effort. Eventually, the plot is uncovered, leading to the arrest of Rosalie and her accomplices. However, Joey, realizing his mistakes and his genuine love for his wife, forgives her, and they decide to preserve their marriage despite the tumultuous events. The film blends dark humor with an exploration of themes such as marital relationships, forgiveness, and redemption, offering audiences both comedic and poignant moments.