Synopsis
A mild-mannered Montreal dentist discovers that his new neighbor is Jimmy "The Tulip" Tudeski, a notorious Chicago hit man hiding from the mob. After Oz reveals Jimmy's identity to his unhappy wife, he becomes entangled in a scheme involving murder, betrayal, and a trip to Chicago. His timid life soon turns into a dangerous and increasingly chaotic criminal farce.
Factoids & Trivia
- The film was shot primarily in Montreal, with additional filming in Chicago, Niagara Falls, and other locations in Quebec and Ontario.
- Bruce Willis performs the blues song heard during Oz's arrival in Chicago. He also plays the harmonica solo in the recording.
- The three children who run past Jimmy and Oz near the flower cart are Bruce Willis' daughters, Rumer, Scout, and Tallulah.
- Amanda Peet's character twisting her ankle was an unscripted moment. The take was retained because it fit the scene.
- The production used two private houses as filming locations. Their owners were reportedly paid $50,000 on the condition that they vacate the properties for one month.
- Despite mixed critical reviews, the film opened at number one in the United States and remained in the top spot for three consecutive weekends.
- The film's commercial success led to the 2004 sequel *The Whole Ten Yards*, which reunited much of the original creative team and cast.