It Happened One Knife: A Double Feature Mystery
By Jeffrey Cohen
Berkley, $7.99
ISBN: 978-0425-22256-0
Click here to read an interview with the author.

After a rather traumatic viewing of his assistant's gore-laden directorial debut film in the normally all-comedic movie theatre Comedy Tonight, Elliot Freed is overwhelmingly thrilled to be showing the classic comedy Cracked Ice. What makes Elliot even giddier is that the showing will be attended by one of the stars of the movie, the legendary Harry Lillis. Even better though, is when Lillis is unexpectedly joined by the other half of the comedic duo, Les Townes. Nothing could dampen Elliot's joy at meeting and watching their film in his theatre; that is, until Lillis announces that Townes murdered his own wife years ago and then burned down their house. Against his will, Elliot gets himself enlisted in Lillis's plan to bluff Townes into admitting his guilt, finally giving justice to Vivian Reynolds.

As if this wasn't enough to fry Elliot's brain, his ex-wife kissed him and yet continues to attend marriage counseling with her current husband, his assistant Anthony is accusing Elliot of stealing his gore-fest film, and someone planted a fake bomb in the theatre. Elliot finds himself investigating a past crime full of adultery and betrayal and gradually sees his idols falling off the pedestal he place them.

Despite the dark twists and turns, this is an out-loud, laugh-inducing mystery that has readers truly liking and cheering for Elliot. His band of employees, which include a Tarantino wannabe and a feminist Goth girl, bring their own craziness to the theatre and yet are genuine in their loyalty - and occasional respect - for Elliot and the Theatre. Cohen again fills the mystery with movie trivia and lore, and the glimpse into the world of the movie studios is fascinating and entertaining. Witty dialogue, unique characters, and a historical and well-researched glimpse into old comedic movies make this a fun, light, and very well-written mystery series.

Review by CINDY CHOW

©2009 Lorie Ham. All rights reserved.