In the captivating heist film 'Happy New Year', small-time crooksters Nick and Charlie hatch an elaborate scheme to rob a prestigious jewelry store located in the heart of the city. Recognizing the heightened security measures guarding the establishment, the duo decides to employ a range of clever disguises. They transform themselves into affluent older gentlemen and ladies, utilizing tactics that not only cloak their identities but also allow them to blend seamlessly into the upper-crust society around them. As they finalize their meticulous plans, a sense of excitement and adrenaline fuels their mission, setting the stage for an engaging, comedy-laden escapade.
As the plot thickens, Nick's unwavering commitment to the heist begins to wane when he unexpectedly encounters the captivating owner of a neighboring antique shop, whom he can't help but fall for. Her charm and charisma spark a genuine emotional connection that throws a wrench into Nick's criminal intentions. Caught between the thrill of their audacious plan and the blossoming romance that lays before him, Nick is faced with an internal conflict, complicating their heist. This newfound romance introduces an array of emotions, testing Nick's loyalties and forcing him to reevaluate the choices he's made in life.
Amidst mistaken identities and unexpected complications, the story continues to evolve as Nick grapples with his desires and the ethical implications of the grand theft they are about to commit. With Charlie encouraging him to stay focused and not divert from their ultimate goal, the tension builds as each character navigates the complexities of their relationships and aspirations. Little does Nick know that this heist will not only change his life but also redefine the very essence of what it means to strike a balance between love and ambition.
Main Cast of Happy New Year
Peter Falk
Nick
Peter Falk delivered a memorable performance as Nick, a.k.a. Lieutenant James Moretti, in the 1987 film "Happy New Year." Directed by John G. Avildsen, this comedic heist film showcased Falk's remarkable talent for balancing humor with an air of hard-boiled authenticity. As Nick, Falk portrayed a seasoned safe-cracker who gets roped into helping a young, inexperienced thief named Eddie (played by Tom Courtenay) rob a bank on New Year's Eve. Falk's charismatic presence and impeccable comedic timing brought a depth of warmth and wisdom to his character, making Nick a lovable rogue despite his criminal intentions. His interactions with Courtenay's character were a highlight of the film, as he seamlessly transitioned between mentor and conspirator, often with a twinkle in his eye that hinted at the mischievous pleasure he took in the caper. Falk's performance was a testament to his range as an actor, as he navigated the script's comedic beats and emotional turns with the ease of a veteran performer, ensuring that Nick remained both a catalyst for the film's humor and a touchstone for its heart.
Charles Durning
Charlie
Charles Durning delivered a memorable performance as Charlie, the lovable and slightly bumbling security chief in the 1987 musical comedy film "Happy New Year." His portrayal of Charlie, who is tasked with safeguarding a valuable necklace during a New Year's Eve celebration at the magnificent Monaco Hotel in New York City, is both endearing and comedic. Durning's Charlie is the perfect blend of sweetness and naivety, as he becomes unwittingly entangled in the film's central heist plot. His interactions with the star-studded cast, including Peter Falk and Claudia Cardinale, are filled with a genuine warmth that radiates off the screen. Durning's comedic timing and physicality bring a delightful levity to the role, making Charlie a standout character in a film that celebrates the joy and chaos of new beginnings. His performance is a testament to his versatility as an actor and his ability to infuse even a supporting role with depth and charm.
Secondary Cast of Happy New Year
Crew of Happy New Year
Full backstage crew list →