Ethan Coen returns with Honey Don’t, a darkly comic tale that blends small-town intrigue with razor-sharp wit. This neo-noir comedy promises both laughs and a biting look at modern America.
Film details
- Premiere date: 4 September 2025
- Director: Ethan Coen
- Runtime: 89 minutes
- Language & subtitles: English with Dutch subtitles
- Age rating: 16+
- Showing at: Cinerama, KINO, LantarenVenster
What’s the vibe?
Honey Don’t is a black comedy where murder meets satire, taking audiences through the dusty streets of small-town America. Think eccentric characters, awkwardly funny violence and a playful jab at organised religion — all with that signature Coen Brothers-style sharpness.
Trailer
Check out the trailer below.
Why you might like it
- For the eyes: Retro-styled costumes, vintage cars and noir-inspired cinematography.
- For the heart: Aubrey Plaza and Margaret Qualley add charisma to their roles, giving the comedy surprising warmth.
- For the mind: Underneath the gags lies a sharp critique of hypocrisy and small-town secrets.
Critical reception
Honey Don’t is still awaiting its wide release, but preview screenings in the United States and the UK have generated excitement. Early critics describe it as “playful yet cutting,” praising Aubrey Plaza’s dry delivery and Coen’s stripped-down direction. The film has been called a breezy murder mystery with bite, well-suited for fans of Fargo and Burn After Reading.
Scene to watch for
The moment Honey confronts the mysterious church elders, balancing absurd comedy with genuine menace — a classic Coen balancing act.
Recommended pairing
Pair it with a night of board games and cocktails, or grab a slice of homemade pie to echo that small-town Americana feel.
Need-to-knows
This is Ethan Coen’s second solo directorial effort, following Drive-Away Dolls. It continues his exploration of dark humour outside the Coen Brothers duo. The film has also been programmed as part of queer cinema specials in some venues, highlighting its subversive undercurrents.
