[Quick Summary: After lawman Wyatt Earp agrees to consult on a film starring Tom Mix, they trace a murder by the sadistic studio head that leads to a battle at the first Academy Awards.]
I really enjoy Blake Edwards' ability to construct a parting shot that's deeper than just a funny line of dialogue. They're witty, with a character flourish.
For example, in the scene below:
- Actor Tom Mix is going to play lawman Wyatt Earp in a film.
- The sadistic studio chief has decided to hire the real Wyatt Earp to act as a consultant.
- The studio chief has sent his studio police man, Dibner, to track down Tom Mix (star) and Wyatt Earp (hired consultant).
- Dibner hired two stunt men to rough up Tom and Wyatt at this restaurant.
- Tom has just threatened Dibner and slammed him up a wall.
- Wyatt now steps up.
- Note how the construction of this scene sets up the parting shot: Tom has physically threatened Dibner --> Wyatt threatens too --> Tom (and the audience) know Wyatt's threat has more force --> Tom tries to regain his dignity by "setting Wyatt straight" --> Tom's parting shot makes fun of the credibility he lacks compared to Wyatt
INT. EL COYOTE - NIGHT
...WYATT: I don't know what he told you, Marvin, but seein' as how I'm more civilized than he is I'd like to put in my two cents worth. From here on, you give me any more trouble and I'm gonna kill you. Understand?
DIBNER: Yes.
WYATT: Say it. Convince me.
DIBNER: Any more trouble...you'll kill me.
WYATT: I believe you. So from now on, whether you live or die, it's up to you.
DIBNER (shakes his head): 'Scuse me.
He hurries into the men's room. Wyatt turns to go but Tom stops him.
TOM: Just a minute. We better get somethin' straight right now!
WYATT: What's wrong?
TOM: I threatened I was gonna drag him behind my horse then you waltz in pretty as you please an' threaten to kill him. I don't like bein' out-threatened.
WYATT: I'm sorry. 'Won't ever happen again.
TOM: Okay...
They walk away.
TOM (continuing): Bad as bein' upstaged. 'Got to remember I'm a star.
WHAT I'VE LEARNED: This parting shot works because:
a) it has deeper meaning about character, i.e., Tom's attitude about himself; and
b) it was constructed (setup) from the scene so that it becomes a satisfying payoff.
Don't be fooled into simply tacking on an amusing line. If it doesn't have deeper meaning, it does not resonate, and thus, is not as funny.
Sunset (1988)(3/20/87 with revisions)
by Blake Edwards
Based on a novel by Rod Amateau
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