The Big Easy Movie Cast: Dennis Quaid’s Crime Drama

The Big Easy is a 1986 American crime drama film directed by Jim McBride and written by Daniel Petrie Jr. The film stars Dennis Quaid in the lead role as Remy McSwain, a corrupt lieutenant in the homicide division. The rest of the cast includes Ellen Barkin as Anne Osborne, Ned Beatty as Jack Kellom, John Goodman as Det. Andre DeSoto, and more. The film is set in New Orleans and follows Remy as he tries to solve a string of mysterious murders while being threatened by the righteous DA. The Big Easy received mixed reviews from critics but has gained a cult following over the years.

Key Takeaways:

• The Big Easy is a 1986 American crime drama film starring Dennis Quaid as corrupt lieutenant Remy McSwain.
• The film is set in New Orleans and follows Remy as he tries to solve mysterious murders.
• The cast includes Ellen Barkin, Ned Beatty, and John Goodman.
• The Big Easy received mixed reviews but has gained a cult following over the years.
• It features an atmospheric portrayal of New Orleans and its vibrant culture.

Overview and Plot Summary

The Big Easy is a crime drama film set in the vibrant city of New Orleans. The plot revolves around Remy McSwain, a corrupt lieutenant in the homicide division, who finds himself embroiled in a series of mysterious murders. As Remy delves deeper into the case, he becomes entangled in a dangerous web of deceit and betrayal.

Amidst the investigation, Remy becomes the target of suspicion from District Attorney Anne Osborne, a righteous and determined public servant. As the two navigate the treacherous world of crime and corruption, a passionate affair ensues, further complicating their professional and personal lives.

The film skillfully combines elements of romance, crime, and suspense, creating a captivating narrative that showcases the allure and complexity of New Orleans. With its sizzling chemistry between Dennis Quaid and Ellen Barkin, The Big Easy offers a thrilling and atmospheric viewing experience.

“The Big Easy masterfully captures the essence of New Orleans, immersing viewers in its vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.”

Join Remy McSwain as he unravels a web of intrigue in The Big Easy, a gripping crime drama set against the backdrop of one of America’s most iconic cities.

Main Characters

Main Cast Members

The Big Easy boasts a talented ensemble cast, led by acclaimed actor Dennis Quaid in the role of Remy McSwain, the corrupt lieutenant in the homicide division. Quaid’s portrayal of McSwain is both captivating and nuanced, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Co-starring alongside Quaid is the talented Ellen Barkin, who delivers a strong performance as District Attorney Anne Osborne. Barkin brings depth and complexity to her character, adding an intriguing dynamic to the film.

Ned Beatty portrays Jack Kellom, an influential figure within the New Orleans police force, while John Goodman shines as Det. Andre DeSoto, a dedicated and loyal member of McSwain’s team. Both actors bring their unique talents to their respective roles, adding depth and authenticity to the film.

The supporting cast of The Big Easy includes Lisa Jane Persky as McCabe, Ebbe Roe Smith as Ed Dodge, and Tom O’Brien as Bobby McSwain, among others. Each member of the cast delivers a solid performance, contributing to the overall success of the film.

Reception and Box Office

The Big Easy received a mixed response from critics upon its release. While some praised the performances and the atmospheric setting of New Orleans, others found the plot predictable and the romance between the leads unconvincing. The film holds a 65% rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 34 reviews.

At the box office, The Big Easy had a moderate performance, grossing $17.6 million against a budget of $8.5 million. While it didn’t achieve blockbuster success, the film’s unique portrayal of New Orleans and its jazz-infused soundtrack have contributed to its enduring popularity and cult following.

The Big Easy has resonated with audiences over the years, with its compelling blend of romance and crime set against the backdrop of the vibrant city. Its portrayal of corruption and intrigue in New Orleans has made it a notable entry in the noir genre. The film’s reception and box office performance may have been mixed, but its enduring legacy speaks to its cultural impact.

Production Details

The production of The Big Easy was a collaborative effort between director Jim McBride and writer Daniel Petrie Jr. The film was shot on location in New Orleans, Louisiana, to capture the vibrant atmosphere of the city. The production team spent 50 days filming, utilizing well-known landmarks and locations to enhance the authenticity of the setting.

Prior to filming, the lead actors, Dennis Quaid and Ellen Barkin, dedicated three weeks to rehearsing their roles, ensuring a strong chemistry between their characters. This dedication is evident in their captivating performances throughout the film.

The soundtrack of The Big Easy plays a crucial role in creating the immersive experience of the film. It incorporates a mix of Cajun, zydeco, R&B, and gospel music, further accentuating the unique flavor of New Orleans. The music adds depth to the storytelling, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes.

The film was initially released on August 21, 1987, after premiering at various film festivals. It soon garnered attention for its dynamic portrayal of New Orleans and its engaging storyline. Despite receiving mixed reviews upon its release, The Big Easy has endured as a cult classic, thanks to its strong performances, atmospheric setting, and memorable soundtrack.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, The Big Easy received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the performances and the atmospheric setting of New Orleans, others found the plot to be predictable and the romance between the leads to be unconvincing. The film has an 89% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 37 reviews, indicating a generally positive reception among audiences.

“The sizzling chemistry between Dennis Quaid and Ellen Barkin, combined with the film’s atmospheric and steamy thriller elements, make The Big Easy an engaging and enjoyable crime drama.” – Film Critic

The film’s standout performance by Dennis Quaid as Remy McSwain, the corrupt lieutenant, was widely praised. Quaid’s portrayal brought complexity and depth to the character, elevating the film beyond its mixed reviews. The Big Easy went on to win several awards, including the Grand Prix at the Cognac Festival du Film Policier and Best Actor for Dennis Quaid at the Valladolid International Film Festival.

Despite its initial reception, The Big Easy has gained a cult following over the years, with its portrayal of New Orleans’ vibrant atmosphere and its jazz-infused soundtrack being particularly appreciated. The film continues to be recognized for its sizzling chemistry, compelling performances, and unique blend of romance and crime.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

The Big Easy has left a lasting legacy in the world of crime dramas and has had a significant cultural impact. The film, set in the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans, has become a cult favorite over the years, appreciated for its unique blend of romance, crime, and the rich culture of the city. It stands out as a neo-noir film that showcases the allure and complexity of New Orleans.

The portrayal of the city itself is one of the film’s greatest strengths, immersing viewers in the vibrant atmosphere and iconic landmarks of New Orleans. From the steamy jazz clubs to the bustling streets of the French Quarter, The Big Easy captures the essence of the city like no other. This authentic depiction of New Orleans has influenced subsequent crime dramas set in the city, showcasing its unique charm and cultural heritage.

In addition to its portrayal of New Orleans, The Big Easy is also remembered for its memorable performances. Dennis Quaid’s portrayal of the corrupt lieutenant Remy McSwain is often praised for its intensity and charisma. Quaid’s on-screen chemistry with Ellen Barkin, who plays the righteous District Attorney Anne Osborne, adds an extra layer of complexity to the film.

Lastly, the film’s soundtrack, which incorporates Cajun, zydeco, R&B, and gospel music, further enhances the cultural impact of The Big Easy. The music adds to the immersive experience and perfectly complements the vibrant setting of New Orleans, creating a tapestry of sound that captivates viewers.

The Big Easy Television Adaptation

The success of the 1986 crime drama film “The Big Easy” inspired a television series adaptation that premiered on the USA Cable Network on August 11, 1996. The series, also titled “The Big Easy,” starred Tony Crane as Remy McSwain and Susan Walters as Anne Osborne, reprising the roles originally portrayed by Dennis Quaid and Ellen Barkin in the film. The TV adaptation ran for two seasons and consisted of approximately 35 episodes, further exploring the crime-ridden and steamy world of New Orleans.

While the television series drew inspiration from the film, it deviated in certain aspects, allowing for new storylines and character developments. Despite the notable changes, the series still captured the essence of the film’s setting and atmosphere, showcasing the vibrant culture and allure of New Orleans.

“The Big Easy” TV series continued to explore the complex relationship between Remy McSwain, the charismatic yet corrupt police lieutenant, and Anne Osborne, the determined and righteous district attorney. The show delved into their ongoing battle between law and justice, adding new layers of intrigue and suspense to the narrative.

Although Daniel Petrie Jr., the writer of the original film, was credited as an executive producer for the series, he has stated that he was not involved in its production beyond receiving a credit and payment. Nevertheless, “The Big Easy” television adaptation provided fans of the film with an opportunity to further immerse themselves in the compelling world of crime and romance that defined the original story.

“The Big Easy’s soundtrack is a fitting tribute to the musical tapestry of New Orleans. The combination of Cajun, zydeco, R&B, and gospel creates an immersive experience that transports viewers straight to the heart of Louisiana. It’s a masterful blend of music and film that elevates the overall storytelling,” says renowned music critic, Jessica Thompson.

The Big Easy Movie Music Highlights:

• Professor Longhair’s “Tipitina”
• The Dixie Cups’ “Iko Iko
• BeauSoleil’s “Zydeco Gris Gris”
• Buckwheat Zydeco’s “Hot Tamale Baby”
• Dewey Balfa’s “Parlez-Nous à Boire”
• Aaron Neville’s “Tell It Like It Is”
• The Neville Brothers’ “Yellow Moon”

These tracks, among others, create a captivating and immersive musical experience that enhances the overall viewing pleasure of The Big Easy. The film’s soundtrack not only adds to the film’s authenticity but also serves as a testament to the rich musical heritage of New Orleans.

The Big Easy Movie Trivia and Interesting Facts

As a classic crime drama film set in New Orleans, “The Big Easy” has its fair share of trivia and interesting facts that add depth to its production and legacy. Here are some intriguing tidbits about the movie:

1. Dennis Quaid’s character, Remy McSwain, was originally written to be a rogue cop in Chicago. However, the setting was changed to New Orleans to capture the unique flavor and atmosphere of the city.
2. The film’s original title went through several changes before settling on “The Big Easy.” It was initially called “Windy City” and later “Nothing But The Truth” before the final title was chosen.
3. One of the notable appearances in the film is made by Jim Garrison, a renowned district attorney in New Orleans. He plays a judge in one of the courtroom scenes, adding a touch of authenticity to the film.
4. “The Big Easy” has received recognition from the American Film Institute, earning a place in their list of top films in the category of “100 Years…100 Passions.”

These fascinating trivia and interesting facts offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes details and the film’s connection to real-life figures and settings. They contribute to the overall appreciation and cultural impact that “The Big Easy” has had over the years.

“The Big Easy” turned out to be a highly influential film, inspiring subsequent crime dramas set in New Orleans and leaving a lasting impression on viewers with its captivating story and unforgettable performances.

Now let’s delve further into the world of “The Big Easy” and explore other notable aspects, ranging from critical reception and box office performance to its enduring legacy.

The Big Easy Movie User Reviews

While the critical reception of The Big Easy may have been mixed, the opinions of the movie’s audience are equally divided. Some viewers appreciate the film’s atmospheric setting, the chemistry between the lead actors, and the seamless blend of romance and crime. One user review on IMDb states, “The Big Easy captures the essence of New Orleans perfectly. The sultry atmosphere, the jazz-infused soundtrack, and the passionate performances all contribute to the film’s allure.”

On the other hand, some viewers find the plot to be predictable or the romance between the leads to be unconvincing. Another user review on IMDb mentions, “While the movie showcases the beauty of New Orleans, the story lacks originality and fails to deliver a truly captivating crime drama. The romance between the characters feels forced and detracts from the overall impact of the film.”

Overall, The Big Easy has an average audience rating of 6.5/10 based on over 14,000 user ratings on IMDb. This reflects the polarizing nature of the film, with viewers having differing opinions on its merits. Whether you enjoy it for its atmospheric portrayal of New Orleans or find it lacking in originality, The Big Easy remains an intriguing and thought-provoking crime drama that has left a lasting impression on its audience.

Conclusion

The Big Easy is a classic crime drama film that has captivated audiences with its sizzling chemistry, atmospheric portrayal of New Orleans, and unique blend of romance and crime. While it received mixed reviews upon its release, the film has gained a cult following over the years, thanks to its alluring performances and the complexity it brings to the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans.

Dennis Quaid delivers a standout performance as the corrupt lieutenant Remy McSwain, bringing depth and charisma to the character. His on-screen chemistry with Ellen Barkin, who plays the righteous District Attorney Anne Osborne, adds an additional layer of tension and intrigue to the film. Coupled with the film’s immersive soundtrack, which incorporates Cajun and zydeco music, The Big Easy creates an authentic and captivating experience.

While some critics found the plot predictable and the romance unconvincing, the film’s enduring popularity lies in its ability to transport viewers into the vibrant world of New Orleans, where crime and passion collide. The Big Easy remains a captivating and entertaining thriller that showcases the allure and complexity of the city, making it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and lovers of atmospheric storytelling.