One murder is a crime. Two is a mystery.|Jun. 16, 2023|USA|99 Min.|R
Genre: Comedy;Crime;Mystery
Description: Maggie Moores, released in 2023, is a darkly comedic murder mystery that appeals to fans of films like Fargo and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. The story unfolds in a small town with minimal crime, where Police Chief Jordan Sanders (Jon Hamm) and his deputy Reddy (Nick Mohammed) discover the body of a young woman named Maggie Moore. Her husband appears grief-stricken, but his sincerity is questionable. Before they can solve this case, another Maggie Moore, similar in age, is found dead. This second victim’s husband also acts suspiciously, though for entirely different reasons. Despite no apparent connection between the two women, Chief Sanders believes their murders must be linked.
As the investigation progresses, Rita Grace (Tina Fey), a neighbor of the first Maggie, becomes a valuable source of information for Sanders and potentially something more. The film reveals much of the events leading to the deaths, shifting the focus from “whodunit” to how Sanders will solve the cases. The chief’s journey is fraught with challenges, but the narrative unfolds with dry wit and unexpected twists, making it a delight for viewers.
Directed by John Slattery, known for his work on “Mad Men,” the film benefits from his skillful direction, especially given his primarily acting-focused career. The town’s quiet, anonymous setting enhances the story’s non-urban atmosphere, while the pacing and character development maintain a balanced tone of wry humor without tipping into absurdity. Though Tina Fey is credited in a supporting role, her comedic sensibilities resonate throughout the script, crafted by veteran screenwriter Paul Bernbaum. Maggie Moores is a compelling and entertainingly quirky addition to the murder mystery genre.
Cast director: John Slattery
Cast actor: Jon Hamm, Tina Fey, Micah Stock, Nick Mohammed, Happy Anderson, Christopher Denham, Allison Dunbar, Tate Ellington, Bobbi Kitten, Oona Roche
Original name: Maggie Moore(s)