Bullets over Broadway is a 1994 film written and directed by Woody Allen. The film is a comedy set in the world of theater and revolves around a young playwright and his encounter with a cast of eccentric theatrical characters. 

Plot

The story follows David Shayne (played by John Cusack), a young aspiring playwright who has written a new play. In an attempt to finance his theatrical production, he accepts money from a gangster known as Nick Valenti (played by Joe Viterelli). In exchange for the funding, Nick insists that his girlfriend, Olive Neal (played by Jennifer Tilly), be given a role in the cast.

David is initially reluctant to agree to this demand but reluctantly concedes. When Olive proves to be a terrible actress and threatens the quality of the production, David is desperate and seeks to find a solution. This is where another key character comes into play, veteran actor and alcoholic Warner Purcell (played by Jim Broadbent), who offers Olive acting lessons and takes on the unofficial role of director of the production.

The plot further complicates when Helen Sinclair (played by Dianne Wiest), a famous Broadway actress, joins the cast and becomes the object of David's obsession. The film explores themes of ambition, love, jealousy, and sacrifice in the Broadway theater scene.

"Bullets over Broadway" is known for its brilliant humor and exceptional performances by the cast. The film offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of the theater world and the quirks of the characters who inhabit it.

Director: Woody Allen

Writers: Woody Allen and Douglas McGrath

Producers: Robert Greenhut, Jean Doumanian, and J.E. Beaucaire

Music: Dick Hyman

Cinematographer: Carlo Di Palma

Main Cast:

• John Cusack as David Shayne
• Dianne Wiest as Helen Sinclair
• Jennifer Tilly as Olive Neal
• Chazz Palminteri as Cheech
• Mary-Louise Parker as Ellen
• Rob Reiner as Sheldon Flender
• Tracey Ullman as Eden Brent
• Jim Broadbent as Warner Purcell

Major Awards: The film won two Oscars: Best Supporting Actress (Dianne Wiest) and Best Original Screenplay.

Box Office Gross: The film collected approximately $13,000,000 at the box office.

Critical Reception:  The film explores themes of art, compromise, and artistic integrity. It is known for its brilliant writing and exceptional performances, particularly that of Dianne Wiest, who won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in this film. Bullets over Broadway was acclaimed by critics and was a box office success.