Chili Palmer is a Miami mobster who gets sent to L.A. to collect a bad debt from Harry Zimm, a Hollywood producer who specializes in cheesy horror films. When Chili meets Harry's leading lady, the romantic sparks fly. After pitching his own life story as a movie idea, Chili learns that being a mobster and being a Hollywood producer really aren't all that different.
Acting
Travolta's career-resurrecting swagger is pure movie star alchemy.
Writing
Elmore Leonard dialogue so sharp you'll want to steal it.
Direction
Sonnenfeld's comic timing makes threats hilarious.
Director
Barry Sonnenfeld
John Travolta
Chili Palmer
Gene Hackman
Harry Zimm
Rene Russo
Karen Flores
Danny DeVito
Martin Weir
Dennis Farina
Ray 'Bones' Barboni
Delroy Lindo
Bo Catlett
James Gandolfini
Bear
Jon Gries
Ronnie Wingate
Renee Props
Nicki
David Paymer
Leo Devoe
Martin Ferrero
Tommy Carlo
Miguel Sandoval
Mr. Escobar
Jacob Vargas
Yayo Portillo
Linda Hart
Fay Devoe
Bette Midler
Doris Saphron
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This film single-handedly resurrected Travolta's career and kicked off his late-90s renaissance before Pulp Fiction even hit wide release.
The 'Look at me' scene was improvised; Hackman's genuine confusion made the final cut.
US
