Cookie's Fortune is a 1999 film directed by Robert Altman. The film's plot is a dark comedy that follows the events in a small town in the southern United States, where a suspicious death triggers a series of strange and surreal situations. 

Plot

The story is set in the quiet town of Holly Springs, Mississippi, where the old and wealthy lady Cookie Orcutt (played by Patricia Neal) is found dead in her home. Her death is initially considered a suicide, but her niece, Camille (played by Glenn Close), tries to make it appear as a murder to avoid the disgrace of suicide.

Camille involves her aunt Cora (played by Julianne Moore) and her cousin Emma (played by Liv Tyler) in staging a fake murder. This plan sets off a series of strange and comedic events that also involve Deputy Sheriff Lester Boyle (played by Chris O'Donnell) and theater director Willis Richland (played by Charles S. Dutton).

The film explores themes of family, honor, and hidden secrets as the characters try to conceal the truth about Cookie's death. Altman's dark comedy is characterized by witty dialogue and eccentric characters.

Director: Robert Altman

Writer: Anne Rapp

Producers: Robert Altman, Etchie Stroh

Music: David A. Stewart

Main Cast:

Glenn Close as Camille Dixon

Julianne Moore as Cora Duvall

Liv Tyler as Emma Duvall

Chris O'Donnell as Jason Brown

Charles S. Dutton as Willis Richland

Patricia Neal as Jewel Mae "Cookie" Orcutt

Major Awards:

The film received positive reviews from critics but did not win major Oscars or Golden Globe awards.

Box Office Gross: The film grossed approximately $11 million worldwide.

Critical Reception: Cookie's Fortune received positive reviews from critics. It was praised for its outstanding cast and its portrayal of the dynamics within a small Southern community. The film received accolades for its humor and its ability to tackle complex themes in a lighthearted manner. However, some critics found the plot somewhat messy. Overall, the film was considered a charming and well-made work.

Trailer