Stiffs

Three Boston undertakers—Frank (Danny Aiello), John (Jon Polito), and John's nephew Nino (Louis Vanaria)—come up with a novel plan when business hits the skids in this dark comedy. Frank, a divorcé (Lesley Ann Warren plays Frank's ex-wife), and John, aka “The Prince,” have been friends for years. Not the sharpest tool in the shed, Nino has an addiction to gambling, while Frank's estranged son, Frank Jr. (Eddie Malavarca), is preparing for law school and could use some financial assistance. When the owner of Ragucci's Funeral Home informs the trio that he may have to sell the business, the men fear for their collective futures. But when John accidentally causes the death of an old mob associate, business starts to pick up—especially after two more deaths quickly follow. Newly promoted from hearse driver to director, Frank keeps his mouth shut, even though he knows what's going on. But then Nino starts to go bonkers, Frank crosses a line, and the authorities develop an interest in Ragucci's. By this point, filmmaker Frank Ciola has shifted from comedy to drama, which leaves Stiffs feeling a little disjointed. Still, this is recommended, overall. (K. Fennessy)