Chris heaven's new film 📽️ "Honey Don't"

 

# *Honey Don't!*: A Neo-Noir Romp with a Feminist Twist

Set to hit theaters on August 22, 2025, *Honey Don't!* is the latest cinematic offering from director Ethan Coen and co-writer Tricia Cooke, marking the second chapter in their audacious "lesbian B-movie trilogy." Following the quirky road-trip caper *Drive-Away Dolls* (2024), this neo-noir dark comedy detective film promises a bold mix of mystery, romance, and irreverent humor. With a stellar cast led by Margaret Qualley, Aubrey Plaza, and Chris Evans, *Honey Don't!* is already generating buzz for its vibrant performances and provocative style, though its reception remains polarizing. Here’s everything you need to know about this upcoming cinematic gem.

## A Small-Town Mystery with Big Ambitions

*Honey Don't!* transports audiences to the sun-baked streets of Bakersfield, California, where Margaret Qualley stars as Honey O'Donahue, a sharp-witted private investigator with a knack for uncovering secrets. The story follows Honey as she delves into a series of bizarre deaths tied to a mysterious local church led by a charismatic yet narcissistic reverend, played with smarmy charm by Chris Evans. Enter MG Falcone (Aubrey Plaza), a tough-as-nails police officer who becomes Honey’s unlikely partner—and romantic interest—in a steamy, chemistry-driven alliance. Together, they navigate a web of deceit, danger, and dark humor in a case that’s as much about personal connection as it is about solving the crime.

The film’s supporting cast is a who’s-who of comedic and dramatic talent, including Charlie Day as a bumbling accomplice, Billy Eichner as a sharp-tongued ally, and rising stars like Lera Abova, Talia Ryder, and Kristen Connolly. Shot primarily in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with select scenes in Bakersfield, the film’s retro aesthetic and gritty locales pay homage to classic noir while infusing it with a distinctly modern, feminist edge.

## A Neo-Noir with a B-Movie Heart

At 89 minutes, *Honey Don't!* is a lean, fast-paced ride that wears its B-movie influences proudly. Rated R for strong sexual content, graphic nudity, some violence, and language, the film doesn’t shy away from pushing boundaries. Its screenplay, crafted by Coen and Cooke, blends sharp banter, absurd humor, and a touch of surrealism, evoking the Coen Brothers’ signature style while carving out a unique identity. The film’s visual flair, courtesy of cinematographer Ari Wegner, contrasts Bakersfield’s dusty sprawl with vivid, almost cartoonish interiors, amplifying the story’s offbeat tone.

The romantic dynamic between Qualley’s Honey and Plaza’s MG is a standout, with early reviews praising their electric chemistry and the film’s unapologetic celebration of queer romance. Posts on X echo this excitement, with fans predicting the movie will gain a cult following online for its bold representation and meme-worthy moments. One user wrote, “Honey Don’t! is gonna be *that* movie for queer cinephiles—Qualley and Plaza are serving looks and chaos!” However, not all reactions are glowing, with some X users noting the plot feels “disjointed” despite the strong performances.

## Cannes Premiere and Mixed Critical Reception

*Honey Don't!* made its world premiere at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival in the Midnight Screenings section on May 24, 2025, where it received a 6.5-minute standing ovation. Critics, however, have been divided. The film holds a 44% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 46/100 score on Metacritic, based on early reviews. Some praise its feminist reimagining of the noir genre, with *Variety* noting, “Qualley and Plaza bring a fiery vitality to a story that’s as much about love as it is about murder.” Others, like *The Hollywood Reporter*, argue it “lacks the narrative cohesion of Ethan Coen’s best work,” citing a script that prioritizes style over substance.

The film’s strengths lie in its performances and dialogue. Qualley’s Honey is both tough and vulnerable, a detective who’s as quick with a quip as she is with a gun. Plaza’s MG is her perfect foil—dry, sardonic, and fiercely competent. Evans, meanwhile, leans into his villainous role with gleeful abandon, making the reverend a memorable antagonist. The trailer, available online, teases their dynamic with scenes of Honey confronting the reverend in a tense standoff, interspersed with sultry moments between her and MG.

## Behind the Scenes and Cultural Impact

Produced by Focus Features and Working Title Films, *Honey Don't!* continues Ethan Coen’s exploration of genre filmmaking outside his collaborations with brother Joel. Co-written with Tricia Cooke, his long-time editor and creative partner, the film reflects their shared love for B-movies and subversive storytelling. The “lesbian B-movie trilogy” concept—playful yet purposeful—aims to elevate marginalized voices in genres traditionally dominated by straight, male-driven narratives.

The film’s release comes at a time when queer representation in cinema is under scrutiny, and *Honey Don't!* doesn’t shy away from the spotlight. Its unapologetic depiction of a lesbian romance, paired with its noir trappings, positions it as a potential touchstone for audiences craving diverse stories. X users have already begun sharing fan art and edits of Qualley and Plaza’s characters, signaling the film’s growing online fandom.

## What to Expect on Release

*Honey Don't!* hits theaters in the United States on August 22, 2025, via Focus Features, with Universal Pictures handling international distribution. At just under 90 minutes, it’s a brisk watch that promises to entertain with its blend of mystery, romance, and dark comedy. Whether it achieves the cult status of *Drive-Away Dolls* or becomes a divisive entry in Coen’s filmography remains to be seen, but its bold performances and genre-bending spirit make it a must-watch for fans of neo-noir and queer cinema alike.

For those eager to dive in, the trailer offers a tantalizing glimpse of Honey’s investigation, complete with snappy dialogue and a retro soundtrack. Check it out online, and keep an eye on X for real-time fan reactions as the release date approaches. Whether you’re drawn to the steamy romance, the quirky mystery, or the Coen-esque absurdity, *Honey Don't!* is poised to leave a mark.

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*For more details on showtimes or to explore fan reactions, visit the official Focus Features website or search #HoneyDont on X.*