New on Prime Video | Throw Momma from the Train (1987) | StreamingGuide.ca

Larry Donner, a novelist struggling with writer’s block and resentment towards his ex-wife Margaret for stealing his manuscript, teaches creative writing at a community college. Owen Lift, a timid middle-aged man living with his domineering mother, dreams of independence. Influenced by an Alfred Hitchcock film, Owen believes in a murder-swap plan: he’ll kill Margaret if Larry eliminates his mother. Misunderstandings and failed murder attempts lead to a comedic yet dark adventure, culminating in a surprising resolution that frees Larry from his writer’s block and changes their lives forever.

Length: 1h 28m
Genre: Comedy, Crime, Thriller
This Title is: Darkly Humorous and Suspenseful

Throw Momma from the Train is New on Prime Video in Canada!

Trailer

Cast

Danny DeVito as Owen Lift
Billy Crystal as Larry Donner
Anne Ramsey as Mrs. “Momma” Lift

Parental Guidance

Maturity Rating: PG-13

Contains themes of crime and dark humor, recommended for a mature audience.

Trivia

Directed by Danny DeVito in his theatrical directorial debut.
Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress (Anne Ramsey).
Inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller “Strangers on a Train”.

Our Review

Quality:
Acting:
Storyline:
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Throw Momma from the Train presents a unique blend of dark comedy and suspense. The film’s strengths lie in the dynamic performances of its lead actors, particularly Anne Ramsey, whose portrayal of the titular Momma is both menacing and comical. While the movie’s plot borrows from the classic “Strangers on a Train,” it manages to carve out its own identity through DeVito’s direction and a screenplay that balances dark themes with humor. However, some critics felt the film could have explored deeper into its darker elements. Overall, it remains a memorable entry in the comedy-thriller genre, offering plenty of laughs and a few thrills along the way.