In a captivating exploration of the quirks and shadows of Bakersfield, “Honey Don’t!” emerges as a distinctive comedy-mystery film directed by Ethan Coen. The film’s narrative revolves around its central character, Honey O’Donahue, a private investigator who becomes embroiled in a baffling web of crime and intrigue following the unexplained death of a potential client just hours before their meeting. Though this incident detours her from her original purpose, it ignites her curiosity and sets her on a path through the town’s unsettling underbelly, intricately linked to the mysterious Four-Way Temple cult.
As Honey delves into this enigmatic world, she also navigates a budding romance with local police officer MG Falcone. Their relationship adds layers to the plot, intertwining personal connections with the murky aftermath of crime in Bakersfield. The dynamic not only showcases the comedy and mystery inherent in the story but also highlights the emotional ramifications of the situations they find themselves in.
“Honey Don’t!” serves as the second installment in what Coen and co-writer Tricia Cooke describe as their “lesbian B-movie trilogy.” The film pays homage to traditional noir detective narratives, drawing inspiration from legendary authors such as Dashiell Hammett and Raymond Chandler, who crafted the hard-boiled detective archetypes that influence the genre. Coen mentioned that incorporating a queer perspective into these classic tropes breathes new life into a form that has been extensively explored.
In their discussions about the film, Coen and Cooke reflect on the specific cinematic influences that shaped “Honey Don’t!” Among them is John Huston’s “Fat City,” which provided insights into the grittier, less glamorous sides of California, aiding in their portrayal of Bakersfield. Another noteworthy inspiration is Robert Altman’s “The Long Goodbye,” a film adaptation of a Raymond Chandler novel, which has led them to consider innovative approaches to scoring their film.
Honey O’Donahue herself is a unique creation for this narrative, embodying characteristics reminiscent of classic detective figures. Her portrayal by Margaret Qualley diverges from traditional interpretations, as she channels influences from modern artists, notably Matty Healy of The 1975. Qualley describes her attempts to breathe life into the character, evoking a blend of charm and charisma that’s distinct to Honey while also shifting expectations within the genre. Critics have noted that there are subtle echoes of acting styles associated with iconic figures like Lauren Bacall, enriching Honey’s persona with layers of historic resonance amid a contemporary setting.
Overall, “Honey Don’t!” not only embraces the conventions of film noir but also revitalizes them through a modern lens, inviting audiences into a story that is as much about mysteries and crimes as it is about the complex lives involved in them. By redefining the landscape of detective stories, Coen and Cooke underscore the potential for depth and diversity in the genre, paving the way for future narratives that challenge norms and celebrate individuality.