Be Cool

About Be Cool

'Be Cool' is a 2005 American crime-comedy film distributed by MGM, directed by F. Gary Gray. It is an adaptation of Elmore Leonard's 1999 novel of the same name and the sequel to Leonard's 1990 novel 'Get Shorty'. The story revolves around Chili Palmer, a Miami loan shark-turned-film producer who decides to enter the music industry. He finds himself tangled with Russian mobsters, rappers, and a music producer to promote a new talent.

Making / Production

Be Cool was directed by F. Gary Gray, produced by Danny DeVito, Michael Shamberg, and Stacey Sher. It was distributed by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. The screenplay was written by Peter Steinfeld and based on the novel by Elmore Leonard.

Actors

• John Travolta as Chili Palmer: Travolta returned from the original film to reprise his role as loan shark turned film producer who now sets his sights on the music industry.
• Uma Thurman as Edie Athens: Thurman plays the widow of a music executive who teams up with Chili Palmer.
• Vince Vaughn as Raji: Vaughan's character is a comedic relief, playing an eccentric music producer.
• Cedric the Entertainer as Sin LaSalle: Cedric played a gangster-turned-music producer who gets involved in Palmer's plans.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Be Cool is the second time that John Travolta and Uma Thurman have danced together on screen, the first being in Pulp Fiction (1994).
• As a favor for Quentin Tarantino, The Rock agreed to take the role of Elliot Wilhelm.
• The Rock's character is a bodyguard who is an aspiring actor and wants to play seminal acting roles.

Music, Soundtrack

• The film features several original songs and music from a variety of genres, showcasing the diversity of the Los Angeles music scene.
• 'You Ain't Woman Enough to Take My Man' by Christina Milian and Fred Durst.
• 'Ghetto Life' by Rick James, featuring Bounty Killer.

Quotes

• Chili Palmer: "I say, I will not be insulted. Not by him, not by you, not by anybody."
• Raji: "This isn't negotiation. This is extortion."