A Twisted Love Story and a Director’s Only Film
The Honeymoon Killers, released in 1970, is a crime drama based on the real-life story of Raymond Fernandez and Martha Beck, the infamous “Lonely Hearts Killers” who murdered as many as 20 women in the 1940s. The film was originally set to be directed by a young Martin Scorsese, but after a start too slow for the budget, the project was handed over to the producer’s friend and roommate Leonard Kastle, a composer and opera director with no prior filmmaking experience. Kastle had written the screenplay and so was asked to also direct the film, which would be his only foray into the world of cinema. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the One-and-Done series with a conversation about The Honeymoon Killers.
A Raw and Operatic Take on a Grim Tale
In our discussion, we delve into the unique tone and style of The Honeymoon Killers, which blends elements of neorealism and opera to create a raw, unsettling, and strangely compelling portrait of two deeply flawed characters. We examine how Kastle’s background in opera influences the film’s larger-than-life performances and emotional intensity, particularly in Shirley Stoler’s portrayal of Martha Beck.
We also explore the film’s central relationship between Raymond (Tony Lo Bianco) and Martha (Shirley Stoler), a twisted love story that sees both characters manipulating and exploiting each other even as they become increasingly entangled in a web of violence and jealousy. While the film doesn’t shy away from the brutality of their crimes, it also finds moments of dark humor and unexpected pathos in their dysfunctional partnership.
Other Discussion Points
- The film’s low-budget, black-and-white aesthetic and its impact on the overall atmosphere
- The sequences directed by Martin Scorsese and how they fit into the larger narrative
- The real-life story of the “Lonely Hearts Killers” and how the film adapts and fictionalizes certain elements
- The film’s controversial and provocative marketing campaign, including its sexually charged poster
- Oliver Wood’s striking cinematography in his first solo job, particularly the powerful closeups that heighten the film’s emotional intensity
A Singular Vision Worth Rediscovering
Despite its grim subject matter and challenging characters, The Honeymoon Killers remains a fascinating and singular work of cinema, one that showcases Leonard Kastle’s unique vision, the fearless performances of its lead actors, and Oliver Wood’s evocative cinematography. It’s a shame that Kastle never directed another film, as his debut suggests a talent for crafting complex, emotionally charged stories that push the boundaries of conventional Hollywood storytelling. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
Film Sundries
- Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatch
- Script Options
- Theatrical trailer
- Letterboxd
