Once Upon a Crime

If you are after a comedy that actually makes you laugh out loud, Once Upon a Crime is available in Australia on Amazon Prime Video, and in the US on Amazon Prime Video and Hoopla right now. A tight runtime that never overstays its welcome. With 126 viewer ratings on TMDB, this is not a title flying under the radar. John Candy leads a cast with real comic timing. Start it on Amazon Prime Video whenever you need something guaranteed to land.

Part of the current wave of titles people are actually watching, Once Upon a Crime earns its spot. Sharp writing and a well-matched ensemble are what separate Once Upon a Crime from the crowd. On their way to Monte Carlo, Monaco, Marilyn and her husband, Neil, meet several other married couples, including Julian and Phoebe, who are traveling with a lost dog they plan to return to its wealthy owner for a large reward. But, when the dog's mistress is murdered, the travelers become the prime suspects, and Inspector Bonnard is determined to track them all down. John Candy and Jim Belushi lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 1992. The real test of any comedy is whether it is still funny once you know all the jokes, and Once Upon a Crime holds up on rewatch in a way that separates it from one-off curiosities. It delivers reliably on what it promises, which is more than most of its competition manages.

For viewers who want something light without wanting something stupid, Once Upon a Crime respects your intelligence. It rewards viewers regardless of what else is in their watch history. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. John Candy sets the tone, but the supporting cast is where a lot of the best moments come from. A reliable pick for any night you want quality comedy without the homework.