Catherine O’Hara brings a uniquely offbeat charm to “After Hours,” Martin Scorsese’s often-overlooked comedy. In this early role, she infuses the film’s dark humor with just the right amount of weird, shaping the tone of an underrated classic.
Subscribe
Analysis and Opinions
Movie Reviews
Catherine O’Hara Is the Glue That Holds Martin Scorsese’s ‘After Hours’ Together
Photo by Rolling Stone
Key Takeaways:
- Catherine O’Hara is pivotal to the film’s offbeat humor
- “After Hours” is recognized as an underrated Scorsese project
- O’Hara’s “perfect amount of weird” enhances the darker twists
- This early role showcases her comedic prowess
- Rolling Stone highlights how she holds the film together
Catherine O’Hara’s Remarkable Role
Catherine O’Hara may be best known for her iconic television performances, but her early work in Martin Scorsese’s “After Hours” is a glimpse into her timeless comedic prowess. The film’s storyline follows a surreal night in New York City, and O’Hara’s character emerges as a bright spot of controlled chaos.
The Diverse World of “After Hours”
Directed by Martin Scorsese, “After Hours” stands apart from his more famous crime dramas. This darkly funny film tells a tale of bizarre encounters, unexpected events, and comedic twists happening to an ordinary individual. O’Hara’s portrayal fits seamlessly into Scorsese’s unusual world, making the film a must-watch for fans of underappreciated comedies.
The Perfect Touch of Weird
“In an early, underrated role, [O’Hara] brought the perfect amount of weird to a darkly funny, underrated film.” These words from the original story capture exactly why her performance matters. The strange scenarios in “After Hours” call for someone who can bridge the gap between unsettling and hilarious, and O’Hara accomplishes just that, holding the film together with her offbeat energy.
Why This Film Endures
Though “After Hours” might fly under the radar compared to Martin Scorsese’s more prominent titles, it thrives on performances like O’Hara’s. Her comedic timing elevates every scene, turning the film’s surreal twists into delightfully odd moments. It’s a testament to O’Hara’s versatility that her role continues to resonate with viewers discovering or revisiting this hidden gem.
A Lasting Contribution
Catherine O’Hara’s offbeat performance ensures that “After Hours” remains an intriguing entry in Scorsese’s filmography. Rolling Stone’s coverage draws well-deserved attention to this pairing of a visionary director and an irrepressibly hilarious actor. While many still overlook this 1980s comedy, O’Hara’s presence cements its place as a must-see for enthusiasts of dark humor and quirky storytelling.
