Susan Seidelman, a director known for her distinctive touch in 80s cinema, delivered a gem in 1989 with Cookie, a film that deserves far more recognition than it initially received. Continuing our exploration into female filmmakers and their captivating stories, this week we revisit Seidelman’s work, specifically this often-overlooked comedy starring Emily Lloyd, Peter Falk, and Dianne Wiest. Before we delve into Seidelman’s final 80s film we’ll be covering, She-Devil, let’s shine a light on Cookie and the unexpected partnerships it portrays.
Cookie Movie Scene with Emily Lloyd and Peter Falk
The narrative of Cookie centers around Cookie Voltecki (Emily Lloyd), the spirited daughter of gangster Dino Capisco (Peter Falk). Dino, newly released from a 13-year prison sentence, decides it’s time to reconnect with Cookie and attempts to leave his criminal past behind. His mistress and Cookie’s mother, Lenore (Dianne Wiest), encourages this father-daughter bonding. However, Dino’s intentions to “go straight” are quickly complicated by his lingering ties to his former business partners and a wife, Bunny (Brenda Vaccaro), unwilling to grant him a divorce. This sets the stage for a series of comedic mishaps and heartwarming moments as Dino tries to navigate family life and extricate himself from the world he once knew. The film also features memorable cameos from comedy legends Jerry Lewis and Lionel Stander, adding to its charm.
Dianne Wiest and Peter Falk in Cookie Movie Scene
Seidelman’s filmography often features strong, independent female characters, and Cookie is no exception. She shares similarities with Wren from Smithereens and Susan from Desperately Seeking Susan, embodying a similar savvy and resourceful spirit, but this time with a Long Island edge. Cookie is a product of D.I.Y. culture, further emphasized by her friendship with Ricki Lake’s character, highlighting a youthful, independent female perspective characteristic of Seidelman’s work.
Emily Lloyd applying makeup in Cookie movie still
A recurring motif in Seidelman’s films is the depiction of women in the process of grooming, often capturing the less glamorous, “unpretty” moments of getting ready. This intimate portrayal of women and their routines is a subtle yet significant aspect of her filmmaking, offering a realistic and relatable glimpse into female experiences. We’ll explore this further in our upcoming discussion of She-Devil.
Brenda Vaccaro and Peter Falk in a scene from Cookie
While the film is titled Cookie, and Emily Lloyd delivers a captivating performance, the dynamic between Dino and Lenore, played by the exceptional Peter Falk and Dianne Wiest, is undeniably compelling. Their on-screen chemistry makes it easy for the audience to become invested in their complex relationship and individual struggles.
Dianne Wiest smiling in Cookie movie still
Dianne Wiest’s portrayal of Lenore is particularly noteworthy. Coming shortly after her Academy Award win for Hannah and Her Sisters and preceding her nomination for Parenthood, Wiest brings depth and nuance to Lenore. What’s refreshing about Lenore is that she defies the stereotypical portrayal of a gangster’s mistress. She’s not a “bimbo” or helpless; instead, she is portrayed as intelligent, bubbly, and just as street-smart as Dino or Cookie. Lenore’s unwavering love for Dino, despite the years of separation and social stigma of being a single mother, showcases a strong, independent woman who made her own choices and built a life for herself and her daughter. Her character is rich with layers, beautifully brought to life by Wiest’s performance.
Emily Lloyd and Peter Falk in a father-daughter scene from Cookie
The film also cleverly subverts typical father-daughter tropes. Instead of the usual narrative of daughters rebelling against marriage or maternal expectations, Cookie presents a daughter who is put to work, speaks her mind freely, and challenges her father’s shortcomings. This angsty father-daughter dynamic, often reserved for father-son stories, offers a refreshing twist. While Cookie is distinctly her own person, you can see reflections of both her parents in her character, creating a well-rounded and believable portrayal of familial influence.
Adrian Pasdar and Emily Lloyd in Cookie movie still
Adrian Pasdar’s character, a lackey in Dino’s former business partnerships, also defies expectations. His interactions with Cookie are flirtatious, and he attempts to be protective, but Cookie consistently asserts her independence and competence, putting him in his place. She is portrayed as self-reliant and capable, needing neither his flirtations nor his protection.
Brenda Vaccaro in Cookie movie still with dogs
Brenda Vaccaro as Bunny, Dino’s wife, is another example of a strong female character. Left to fend for herself when Dino went to prison, Bunny opens a pet grooming business in their home. This not only provides comedic moments but also underscores the resourcefulness of the women in Dino’s life. What’s remarkable about Cookie is how it portrays these three women – Cookie, Lenore, and Bunny – as independent individuals who have built lives for themselves without relying on Dino for support. When Dino re-enters their lives, it’s Lenore who has missed him emotionally, not economically. This subtle yet powerful feminist perspective, showcasing women as fully realized individuals within a gangster film, was perhaps too understated for many critics at the time. Unlike many gangster movies where women are relegated to the background, Cookie brings them to the forefront, giving them agency and depth.
Emily Lloyd in a suit in Cookie movie still
As Dino’s attempts to leave his past behind become increasingly complicated by his former business associates, it is Cookie who ultimately devises the solution to their predicament. This highlights her intelligence and proactive nature, further reinforcing the film’s theme of female empowerment and unconventional problem-solving.
Cookie movie ending scene with wedding
In classic comedy fashion, Cookie concludes with a feel-good resolution, complete with a wedding (whose we won’t spoil!). Cookie is an intelligent and funny film that offers more than meets the eye. It’s a film that deserves a second look and a re-evaluation, especially for those who may have dismissed it upon its initial release. It’s a testament to Susan Seidelman’s ability to craft engaging stories with nuanced characters, particularly women, and to subtly weave in social commentary within an entertaining comedic framework. While not explicitly a film about traditional business partners in the corporate sense, Cookie cleverly explores different kinds of partnerships—familial, romantic, and even criminal—highlighting the dynamics of these relationships with humor and heart.
