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Margaret Qualley is taking on a bold new role as a slick lesbian detective in the upcoming queer neo-noir comedy Honey Don’t!, set to hit theaters this summer. The film, directed by Ethan Coen and Tricia Cooke, also stars Aubrey Plaza and Chris Evans, and serves as the second entry in the directors’ quirky, genre-bending lesbian B-movie series following Drive-Away Dolls.
Set in modern-day Bakersfield, Honey Don’t! draws inspiration from classic noir films but adds a modern, irreverent, and unapologetically queer twist. Qualley plays Honey, a smooth-talking private investigator hired to look into the strange activities of a church led by an unsettling figure, Priest Dean, played by Evans. Aubrey Plaza rounds out the core cast as a cryptic and mysterious woman whose loyalties—and identity—remain unclear.
Qualley described her detective character as being effortlessly sly and intuitive, saying, “Honey, she’s like honey—she’s skillful, she’s smooth, she is slipping in and out undetected.” She also praised her collaboration with the directing duo, commenting on how much she appreciated the love and respect Coen and Cooke have for each other and their unique creative vision.
The movie wrapped filming in May 2024, and although plot specifics are still under wraps, it’s already gaining early attention for its offbeat style and inclusive storytelling. With a blend of mystery, comedy, and queer identity, Honey Don’t! promises to be a standout in the summer release calendar.
For Plaza, this marks a significant return to film following the tragic death of her longtime partner, filmmaker Jeff Baena, earlier this year. The actress, who recently made a guest appearance on Saturday Night Live’s 50th anniversary special, is expected to bring her signature wit and emotional nuance to this layered role.
Although an exact release date hasn’t been announced yet, Honey Don’t! is expected to premiere in theaters sometime this summer, and it’s shaping up to be a must-watch.