So I Married an Axe Murderer

| 1993

Directed by: Thomas Schlamme

Main Plot

"So I Married an Axe Murderer" is a comedy that blends romance and mystery, centering around a commitment-phobic poet who finally meets a woman he believes could be the one. As their relationship progresses, he becomes increasingly paranoid due to a series of coincidences and his own insecurities, leading him to suspect that she might be a notorious serial killer known for murdering her husbands. The film humorously explores themes of love, trust, and the fear of commitment, while also delving into the absurdity of jumping to conclusions based on circumstantial evidence. The protagonist's journey is marked by a series of comedic misunderstandings and escalating suspicions, fueled by his overactive imagination and the influence of his eccentric family and friends. As he digs deeper into his fiancée's past, he encounters a mix of quirky characters and bizarre situations, each adding to the film's comedic tension. The narrative builds towards a climactic revelation, where the truth about the mysterious murders is finally uncovered, leading to a resolution that challenges the protagonist's preconceived notions about love and trust. The film ultimately delivers a lighthearted take on the complexities of relationships, wrapped in a humorous and suspenseful package.

Characters

  • Mike Myers: Charismatic poet Charlie MacKenzie fears commitment, but his new love's eccentricities hint at sinister secrets, propelling him into a comedic, heart-racing mystery.
  • Nancy Travis: Harriet Michaels, a beguiling butcher with a mysterious past, enchants Charlie while hiding layers of suspense, leaving him to unravel her dangerous allure.
  • Anthony LaPaglia: Tony Giardino, Charlie's loyal yet exasperated best friend, blends humor with skepticism as he navigates the chaos of love and potential murder.

Ending Explained

In the climax of the film, Charlie MacKenzie, who has been plagued by paranoia about his new wife Harriet possibly being a serial killer, finds himself in a dire situation. During their honeymoon at a secluded hotel, Charlie's suspicions reach a peak when he discovers Harriet's previous husbands have all disappeared under mysterious circumstances. The tension escalates when Charlie is trapped in a room with Harriet, who appears to be wielding an axe. However, the twist reveals that Harriet is not the murderer. Instead, her sister, Rose, is the true culprit. Rose has been killing Harriet's husbands out of a twisted sense of protection and jealousy. This revelation comes to light when Rose attempts to kill Charlie, confirming his fears but redirecting them towards the real threat. In a dramatic confrontation, Charlie manages to subdue Rose, saving himself and Harriet. The resolution of the film sees Charlie and Harriet reconciled, with Harriet being exonerated from any wrongdoing. The ending underscores themes of trust and misunderstanding, as Charlie learns the importance of communication and not jumping to conclusions. The film closes on a lighter note, with the couple looking forward to a future free from the shadow of suspicion and fear.

Thomas Schlamme Comedy Romance Mike Myers Nancy Travis Anthony LaPaglia