Tricia Cooke and Ethan Coen Release 'Honey Don't!' Featuring Lesbian Noir Themes

What's Happening?

Tricia Cooke and Ethan Coen have released their latest film, 'Honey Don't!', a lesbian noir that stars Margaret Qualley as private detective Honey O'Donahue. The film, debuting on August 22, is the second installment in their lesbian-centric trilogy, following last year's 'Drive-Away Dolls'. The story revolves around Honey's investigation into a suspicious death, leading her to a narcissistic reverend played by Chris Evans. Cooke, who co-wrote the film, aims to make lesbian protagonists visible within the noir genre, switching traditional gender norms by casting a feminine detective and a butch femme fatale. The film is set in Bakersfield, California, and features Aubrey Plaza as MG Falcone, Honey's romantic interest.

Why It's Important?

The release of 'Honey Don't!' marks a significant contribution to the representation of LGBTQ+ characters in mainstream cinema, particularly within the noir genre, which traditionally lacks queer themes. By challenging gender norms and showcasing a lesbian protagonist, the film offers visibility and empowerment to underrepresented groups. This move could influence future film projects to incorporate diverse narratives and characters, potentially broadening the scope of storytelling in Hollywood. The film's success may encourage other filmmakers to explore similar themes, contributing to a more inclusive industry.

What's Next?

Following the release of 'Honey Don't!', Cooke and Coen are working on the final installment of their trilogy, titled 'Go Beavers'. The script is in its early stages and involves a crew team reunion with a mysterious plot. Cooke aims to steer the story away from horror, drawing inspiration from the film 'Walkabout'. The continuation of their trilogy will likely further explore themes of sexuality and identity, potentially setting new standards for LGBTQ+ representation in film.

Beyond the Headlines

The film's setting in Bakersfield, California, deviates from typical noir environments, offering a sun-drenched backdrop that contrasts with the genre's usual grim settings. This choice reflects Cooke's Southern California roots and adds a unique visual element to the narrative. Additionally, the film's production in Albuquerque, New Mexico, required editing to maintain the intended aesthetic, showcasing the creative challenges involved in filmmaking.