Six Ways to Sunday (1997)

Six Ways to Sunday Poster

Norman Reedus stars as Harry Odum, a henpecked, 18-year-old momma's boy in Youngstown, Ohio, who -- with his violent temper -- impresses a local boss of the Jewish Mafia. Soon he's found his calling as a hit man alongside his crack addict partner Arnie Finklestein (Adrien Brody), and he discovers that his rage and complicated psychosis fuel his murderous abilities. Harry also falls for the organization's limping, Hungarian-born maid Iris (Elina Lowensohn), a romance complicated by Harry's Oedipal, sexual relationship with his domineering mother Kate (Deborah Harry).

Film Overview
"Six Ways to Sunday" is a 1997 dark funny movie directed by Adam Bernstein. The movie stars Norman Reedus as Harry, who lives in an upsetting mother-son relationship and becomes the unwilling enforcer for a corrupt Jewish mob. Deborah Harry, Isaac Hayes, and Adrien Brody likewise contribute their skills to the cast. The movie takes viewers into the noir world of a mentally challenged hit man, exploring the dynamics of power, regret, and relationship control within a twisted context. The story is based upon the 'Portrait of a Young Man Drowning' composed by Charles Perry.

Plot Summary
Eighteen-year-old Harry Odum (Norman Reedus) lives with his excessively connected mom, Kate Odum (Deborah Harry), in Youngstown, Ohio. After impressing local mob managers with his callous instincts, and a strong determination to kill without remorse, Harry is soon recruited by the Jewish mob, led by Abie Pinkwise (Jerry Adler). While at first he appears a dimwit, Harry rapidly proves himself ruthless and efficient, quickly ascending the ranks of the criminal offense organization.

Mother-Son Relationship
Harry's relationship with his mother is deeply troubling. Kate, who was once a stripper, has an improper accessory to her child, blurring the limits in between maternal love and sexual attraction. This convoluted relationship appears in Harry's interactions with ladies, thus adding to his mental instability. Their abnormally close bond fuels the core of the story signifying the driving force behind Harry's irregular and aggressive behavior.

Crucial Reception
"Six Ways to Sunday" features outstanding efficiencies however is frequently criticized for its confusing story. Critics are divided on it because of its shocking mother-son relationship and the disturbing picture of criminality. However, the movie praises Norman Reedus' and Deborah Harry's persuading efficiencies, checking out both the extreme and gentle characteristics of their dysfunctional relationship. This film's dark humor and stressful images develop a compelling, albeit demanding seeing experience.

Character Performance
Reedus' portrayal of Harry is outstanding. By utilizing his character's complex psychology, Reedus has the ability to bring the character to life, revealing his battle with his prideful mother and his psychological deterioration. He supplies spectacular minutes of vulnerability, showcasing the extremely essence of a worn-out man-child. Deborah Harry's performance as the manipulative mom similarly pushes the limits, representing a character that swings in between nurturing and impeding her son's advancement.

Conclusion
"Six Ways to Sunday" provides a twisted examination of a disrupted, cooperative mother-son relationship against a backdrop of the mob. Its mix of dark humour, disturbing mental insights, and high-stake mafia action make for an intriguing narrative sprinkled with moments of troubling discomfort and occasional comic relief. The film is an unique mix of character study and criminal activity thriller, with excellent efficiencies from the leads grounding the more surreal elements of the story. Regardless of its divisive narrative, "Six Ways to Sunday" is a worthwhile exploration of a dark and unusual character portrait.

Top Cast

  • Norman Reedus (small)
    Norman Reedus
    Harry Odum
  • Debbie Harry (small)
    Debbie Harry
    Kate Odum
  • Adrien Brody (small)
    Adrien Brody
    Arnie Finklestein
  • Paul D'Amato (small)
    Paul D'Amato
    Fishetti
  • Holter Graham (small)
    Holter Graham
    Madden
  • Peter Appel (small)
    Peter Appel
    Abie Pinkwise
  • Kathy Lee Hart
    Waitress
  • Paul Lazar (small)
    Paul Lazar
    Hyman
  • Eugene Leong
    Chinese Man
  • Clark Gregg (small)
    Clark Gregg
    Benjamin Taft
  • Isaac Hayes (small)
    Isaac Hayes
    Bill Bennet