Murder, Anyone?

There’s also great fun in watching the actors maneuver through the ever-changing whims of their creators on the fly, often in the same shot. Acclaimed voice actor LaMarche is entertaining here, and he and Howell IV share great chemistry. Andrews and Stineman are also quite good, having to essentially play their roles in five different ways. That is a big ask of any thespian, but they do an excellent job. Breslin is like a comedic firehose; once he gets going, he always bringing the laughs.

Of course, a lot of the fun is there on the page, as the dialogue is quick-witted and dry. The inclusion of an over-the-top psychic, like Deathtrap, only amps up the humor in all the best ways. Interestingly, given how the narrative folds in on itself to pay things off down the road, there’s a fun connection between it and the very amusing See How They Run, though that is presumably a coincidence. The rapid pace of changes the writers demand or hearing some of their more outlandish ideas is a constant source of joy.

“…great fun…”

To help him fulfill his promise to his father, Cullen Bressack has included a number of people who worked with Mr. Bressack. LaMarche probably needs no introduction, but for those unfamiliar, he voiced The Brain as well as a thousand other beloved cartoon characters. As such, he worked closely with the older Bressack, so his casting is another tie-in. Howell IV wrote alongside Bressack on Pinky and The Brain and The Animaniacs, to name a few. Happily, this is more than mere stunt casting, as having folks who understand the author’s intent is crucial to selling the many curves the story takes.

Murder, Anyone? is a loving tribute from a caring son to his father. Of course, intentions only get one so far, but James Cullen Bressack has made his dad proud by helming a hilarious, enjoyable adaptation of the beloved stage play. Thanks to excellent casting, great editing, and a true sense of comedic timing, the film can be enjoyed by all, whether or not they know its personal history or not. And that is something James Cullen Bressack can be proud of.