Ruthless People (1986)
A couple, cheated by a vile businessman, kidnap his wife in retaliation—without knowing that their enemy is delighted they did.
Details
Budget
$11,000,000
Rating
7/10 (408 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Touchstone Pictures, Silver Screen Partners II
About Ruthless People
Released in 1986, "Ruthless People" is a dark comedy centered on a kidnapping plot that goes unexpectedly awry. The film stars a businessman whose wife is abducted in retaliation for his deceitful actions. Unbeknownst to the kidnappers, the husband is secretly pleased with the situation, setting the stage for a series of comedic complications.
The movie leans into its "dark comedy" label, exploring themes of revenge and marital discord through exaggerated scenarios. Set in Santa Monica, California, the plot focuses on a ransom demand that the husband is reluctant to meet, leading to an evolving dynamic between the abductors and their captive. The narrative plays on the husband's manipulative nature and the kidnappers' initial lack of awareness regarding his true feelings.
"Ruthless People" received a 93% on Rotten Tomatoes and a 78/100 on Metacritic, indicating a generally positive reception from critics. Its IMDb rating stands at 6.9 out of 10 from over 32,000 votes. The film is recognized for its comedic approach to a normally serious subject, delivering a blend of slapstick and sharp dialogue within its 93-minute runtime.
Why you might be searching for Ruthless People
People are often searching for this 1986 film, frequently recalling the specific plot point of a woman plotting to abduct an older, wealthy man, often with her husband involved. The searches highlight the memorable premise of the kidnapping and the 1980s setting of this dark comedy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream "Ruthless People" on Amazon Prime Video, with or without ads. It's also available to rent or buy on platforms like Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Google Play Movies, and YouTube. You can also purchase the DVD.
No, "Ruthless People" is not based on a true story. It is a comedic film with an original screenplay by Dale Launer.
At the end of "Ruthless People," Barbara reappears on the pier after seemingly having drowned, exposing the real killer, who falls into the ocean. Ken, having previously leaped from the pier, resurfaces in scuba gear with the briefcase of cash, celebrating with Barbara and Sandy, as they succeed in extorting $2.2 million from Sam for his betrayal.
"Ruthless People" is generally considered worth watching, receiving positive reviews for its dark premise, misanthropic characters, and intricate plot. Critics and audiences have praised its humor and the performances of its cast, including Danny DeVito and Bette Midler.