Susan's Plan

Susan's Plan 1998 film DVD cover

Susan's Plan (also known as Dying to Get Rich on video) is a 1998 American black comedy film written and directed by John Landis. The film stars an ensemble cast including Nastassja Kinski, Billy Zane, Michael Biehn, Rob Schneider, Lara Flynn Boyle, and Dan Aykroyd. The plot revolves around a woman named Susan who, after discovering her husband is having an affair, devises a plan to kill him with the help of her friends in order to collect his life insurance.

Plot

Susan (Nastassja Kinski) is deeply unsatisfied with her life, particularly due to her failing marriage with her unfaithful husband, Paul (Adrian Paul). Upon learning of Paul's affair, Susan concocts a scheme to have him murdered so she can claim his substantial life insurance payout. She enlists the help of her brother, a small-time crook named Bill (Billy Zane), and his inept friends, including the nervous Steve (Rob Schneider) and the disillusioned professional hitman, Bob (Michael Biehn). As the group begins to implement their poorly thought-out plan, a series of comedic mishaps ensues, leading to unexpected consequences for everyone involved.

Cast

• Nastassja Kinski as Susan Holland
• Billy Zane as Bill
• Michael Biehn as Bob
• Rob Schneider as Steve
• Lara Flynn Boyle as Betty Johnson
• Dan Aykroyd as Bob's Client
• Adrian Paul as Paul Holland

Production

Susan's Plan was written and directed by John Landis, known for his work on comedies and the occasional horror-comedy hybrid. The film was produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), although it did not receive a wide theatrical release. Instead, it found a modest audience through home video and cable television, where it was marketed under the alternative title Dying to Get Rich.

Reception

Upon its release, Susan's Plan received mixed to negative reviews from critics. Many reviewers criticized the film for its uneven tone and lack of originality in both plot and humor. However, some praised the performances of the ensemble cast, particularly those of Kinski, Zane, and Biehn, for their commitment to the material.

Legacy

While Susan's Plan did not make a significant impact upon its initial release, it has since gained a small cult following among fans of black comedies and the work of John Landis. The film is often discussed in the context of Landis's broader filmography, highlighting its place within the director's exploration of genre and satire.