Throw Momma from the Train

Yes, if there was an Oscar for questionable or crass titles, this would be the runaway winner. But bear with us, for the comedic talents of Billy Crystal and Danny DeVito shouldn’t be underestimated. Owen (DeVito) is a friendless, frustrated wannabe mystery writer. As if things were not bad enough, he has been cursed with a domineering mother (Anne Ramsey) who would make him tear his hair out, if he had any. Having reached the limits of his tolerance, Owen strikes a deal with his writing teacher Larry (Crystal), promising to help him kill the latter’s ex-wife, which Larry will then reciprocate by killing Owen’s mother. While DeVito and Crystal are expert practitioners of their comic craft, Ramsey steals their thunder, portraying a woman so hateful she’ll convince you she deserved to be done away with. Now that’s good acting.

7 Jan; 7.25pm. Star Movies, Channel 58