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I Love You to Death

Directed by Lawrence Kasdan, I Love You to Death (1990) is a dark comedy inspired by the true story of a woman in Allentown, Pennsylvania, who attempted to murder her cheating husband multiple times. Kevin Kline stars as Joey Boca, a pizza parlor owner and serial philanderer. When his wife Rosalie (Tracey Ullman) discovers his infidelities, she enlists the help of her mother and two incompetent, drug-addled hitmen (William Hurt and Keanu Reeves) to finish him off.

The film is noted for its eccentric ensemble cast—including a young River Phoenix—and its comedic take on a bizarre real-life crime story.

Locations

While the real-life events took place in Pennsylvania, the production moved the setting to Tacoma, Washington, utilizing the city's historic buildings and steep streets to create a distinct, atmospheric look.

Joey Boca’s Pizza, Tacoma

The exterior of "Joey Boca's Pizza" was filmed at a building on the corner of North I Street and North 6th Street in Tacoma. The shop, which was a real storefront dressed for the movie, served as the heart of the community where Joey flirted with every woman in sight. Map Location

The Boca House, Tacoma

The residential home where the various (and increasingly ridiculous) murder attempts take place is located in the North End of Tacoma. The production used a real Victorian-style home to emphasize the "domestic bliss" that Rosalie was so desperate to defend. Map Location

Stadium High School, Tacoma

One of the most recognizable landmarks in Tacoma, Stadium High School, appears in the background of several scenes. Its castle-like architecture and dramatic placement overlooking Commencement Bay provided a grand backdrop for the film's working-class story. Map Location

Bob's Java Jive, Tacoma

The iconic teapot-shaped building, Bob's Java Jive, makes an appearance in the film. This historic dive bar and karaoke joint perfectly fit the film's quirky and slightly surreal aesthetic. Map Location

Wright Park, Tacoma

Several outdoor sequences were filmed in Wright Park, a 27-acre arboretum near downtown Tacoma. The park’s lush greenery and historic statues provided a peaceful contrast to the chaotic plotting happening within the Boca household. Map Location

Director

Lawrence Kasdan

Cast

Kevin Kline

Tracey Ullman

Joan Plowright

River Phoenix

Full Cast

IMDB

View the official IMDB page

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