Who Killed Mary What's 'Er Name?

Who Killed Mary What's 'Er Name? is a 1971 American crime mystery film that blends elements of drama with an undercurrent of social commentary on urban life and its challenges. The film was directed by Ernest Pintoff and stars Red Buttons, who delivers a compelling performance as an unlikely amateur sleitor sadetective in a gritty New York neighborhood.

In this film, Red Buttons portrays Mickey Isador, a middle-aged former boxer who has settled into a lackluster routine as the owner of a local deli in a working-class neighborhood. Buttons, widely known for his comedic roles and striking red hair, here conveys a more nuanced character marked by layers of world-weariness and a quiet determination that drives the narrative forward.

The story begins with the discovery of the murder of a woman named Mary, known by the locals and dismissively referred to as 'what's 'er name', underscoring the marginalization of her character in the daily lives of the neighborhood's residents. Mary's death initially attracts minimal attention from the community and authorities alike, as she is a sex worker and thus, regrettably, often overlooked by society.

However, Mickey, who knew Mary in passing, is disturbed by the lack of interest in the case and takes it upon himself to find out what happened to her. His personal investigation becomes an odyssey through the seedy underbelly of the city, where he encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own secrets and connections to Mary. Through Mickey's eyes, viewers get a sense of the complexities and the less-glamorous aspects of urban life in the early '70s.

The film's title, Who Killed Mary What's 'Er Name?, is indicative of both the central mystery and the social invisibility of the victim. Mickey's quest is not just a search for the perpetrator, but also a search for justice for someone whom society has largely ignored. The film, therefore, operates on multiple levels—it's a who-done-it tale as well as a commentary on indifference, highlighting the fact that every individual, regardless of their social standing, deserves recognition and justice.

Throughout his investigation, Mickey must confront not only the apathy and sometimes outright hostility of those around him but also his own preconceptions and the moral ambiguities of a world where the lines between right and wrong are often blurred. As he delves deeper into the case, he finds himself enveloped in a web of deceit and corruption that seems to permeate the city at every level, from the streets to the corridors of power.

The narrative is enriched by the gritty, atmospheric portrayals of New York City in the early 1970s, a time when many American cities were facing economic decline, rising crime rates, and significant social changes. The film doesn't shy away from exploring the socio-economic disparities, the plight of marginalized communities, and the complexities of urban dynamics.

Red Buttons’ performance is the glue that holds the film together. His transition from the light-hearted roles he was known for to the more dramatic, earnest character of Mickey Isador showcased his range and depth as an actor. Mickey is a flawed but relatable protagonist, his everyman demeanor and genuine concern for justice offer an engaging center to the narrative.

The supporting cast also contributes significantly to the film’s atmosphere, providing a rich tapestry of characters that reflect the diversity and often harsh realities of urban existence. These characters, from various walks of life, all play a part in Mickey's journey, whether as allies, obstacles, or simply as part of the environment that shaped both him and Mary.

Who Killed Mary What's 'Er Name? is a film that stands as a time capsule of its era while dealing with timeless themes. Its mix of murder mystery and social exposition examines the value of human life through the lens of those society often forgets. It is a thought-provoking piece that encourages the audience to ponder the bigger picture, to consider the human stories behind the headlines, and the often unseen struggles that take place just out of sight.