Raising Arizona

Main Plot

Raising Arizona follows the story of H.I. McDunnough, a repeat offender who falls in love with a police officer named Ed. After they marry, they discover they are unable to have children. In a moment of desperation, they decide to kidnap one of the quintuplets born to a wealthy family, believing that they can provide a better home. The couple faces a series of comedic and chaotic challenges as they attempt to raise the child while evading law enforcement and dealing with their own quirky friends and family. As their plan spirals out of control, H.I. and Ed must confront the consequences of their actions and the realities of parenthood, all while navigating a world filled with eccentric characters and unexpected twists. The film blends humor with themes of family and responsibility, showcasing the lengths people will go to for love and connection.

Characters

• Nicolas Cage plays H.I. McDunnough, a small-time criminal who, with his wife, kidnaps a baby to fulfill their desire for a family.
• Holly Hunter plays Ed, a police officer who desperately wants a child, leading her and her husband to kidnap a baby.
• Trey Wilson plays Nathan Arizona, a furniture store owner whose baby is kidnapped, prompting a chaotic search to retrieve his child.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Raising Arizona, the central conflict revolves around H.I. McDunnough and Ed's desperate desire to have a child after failing to conceive. They resort to kidnapping one of the Arizona quintuplets, believing it will fulfill their dreams of family. As the story unfolds, their actions lead to a series of comedic yet chaotic events, drawing the attention of law enforcement and other criminals. The climax occurs when H.I. and Ed are pursued by the law and face the consequences of their choices. In a tense showdown, they confront their motivations and the implications of their actions. Ultimately, H.I. realizes that their pursuit of a child through illegal means is misguided. In a moment of clarity, he decides to return the baby, understanding that love and family cannot be obtained through theft. The film concludes with a poignant scene where H.I. and Ed reflect on their journey, suggesting that true happiness comes from acceptance and love rather than possession. The narrative resolves by emphasizing the importance of family values and the idea that life’s unpredictability can lead to fulfillment in unexpected ways. The ending encapsulates the film's blend of humor and heart, leaving audiences with a sense of hope.