Ruthless People (1986)

When a respectable couple, entangled in a deceitful business deal, decides to retaliate against their vile perpetrator by kidnapping his wife, they expect a tense standoff. However, their plan takes an unexpected and darkly comedic turn when they discover their enemy, a callous millionaire, is not only unfazed by his wife's abduction but is actually thrilled by the opportunity. What follows is a chaotic and increasingly absurd series of events as the kidnappers struggle to comprehend their target's perverse delight, leading to escalating misunderstandings and hilariously bad decisions. *Ruthless People* earns its place on a list of Jerry Zucker's best films through its masterful blend of sharp wit, unpredictable plotting, and a wickedly cynical worldview. As a director and writer, Zucker excels at taking a seemingly straightforward premise and injecting it with unexpected twists and genuinely laugh-out-loud moments, often derived from the sheer audacity and moral bankruptcy of his characters. The film’s fast pacing, intricate character interactions, and the darkly humorous exploration of greed and desperation are hallmarks of Zucker's signature directorial style, making it a prime example of his ability to craft intelligent and immensely entertaining comedies.