Is Queenpins based on a True Story? Cast, Plot, Where to Watch and More
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Updated Jul 29, 2024
Is Queenpins Based on a True Story?
Queenpins is based on a true story, though it adds some fictional elements for entertainment. The film tells the story of a massive coupon fraud that took place in Arizona. In real life, three women—Robin Ramirez, Marilyn Johnson, and Amiko "Amy" Fountain—were behind this scam. They created counterfeit coupons, which they sold online, allowing people to get items for free or at a huge discount.
The scam began in 2007 and resulted in a $40 million loss for companies like Procter & Gamble. The women were caught in 2012 when a police investigation uncovered their operation. They were arrested and had to pay a large amount in restitution. Ramirez served time in prison, while Johnson and Fountain received probation.
In Queenpins, the story is portrayed with humor and simplifies some details. The film's main characters, Connie and JoJo, are inspired by real women but are not exact replicas. The movie takes creative liberties to make the story more entertaining, while still being inspired by the real-life coupon fraud.
Source: Screerant
Queenpins
Queenpins is a 2021 comedy film directed by Aron Gaudet and Gita Pullapilly, starring Kristen Bell, Kirby Howell-Baptiste, Paul Walter Hauser, Bebe Rexha, and Vince Vaughn. The film, which had a limited theatrical release on September 10, 2021, and later premiered on Paramount+ on September 30, 2021, is loosely based on a real-life coupon scam.
The story follows two friends who get rich by creating and selling counterfeit coupons. While the movie adds a comedic twist, it is inspired by the true events involving Robin Ramirez, Amiko "Amy" Fountain, and Marilyn Johnson. In 2012, these women were caught by police with over $25 million in fake coupons and a significant amount of stolen assets. Queenpins mixes humor with elements of this real-life scheme, offering a fun take on the true story.
Queenpins Plot
Queenpins follows Connie Kaminski, a frustrated former Olympic athlete who feels unappreciated in her mundane suburban life. She has faced many disappointments, including a miscarriage and a lack of support from her husband, Rick. Her best friend, JoJo Johnson, is also struggling, having lost her job after her identity was stolen and living with her mother.
One day, Connie receives a free cereal coupon from General Mills after complaining about stale Wheaties. She learns from a cashier that companies often send free coupons in response to complaints. This sparks an idea for Connie and JoJo. They travel to a factory in Mexico and discover a scheme to make fake coupons. They start their own business, "Savvy Super Saver," using these coupons to make a lot of money.
Their success catches the attention of Ken Miller, a loss prevention officer, and Simon Kilmurry, a postal inspector. They investigate and gather evidence against Connie and JoJo. Eventually, the pair are arrested and face serious charges. However, due to their cooperation and the companies’ desire to avoid bad press, they receive lighter sentences. JoJo begins a new relationship and plans to continue their scam in Montenegro, while Connie, now pregnant through IVF, awaits her release.
Queenpins Cast
Actor | Character |
Kristen Bell | Connie Kaminski |
Kirby Howell-Baptiste | Joanna "JoJo" Johnson |
Paul Walter Hauser | Ken Miller |
Vince Vaughn | Simon Kilmurry |
Joel McHale | Rick Kaminski |
Bebe Rexha | Tempe Tina |
Dayo Okeniyi | Earl |
Greta Oglesby | Josephine "Mama Josie" Johnson |
Jack McBrayer | Agent Park |
Michael Masini | Agent Harris |
Annie Mumolo | Crystal |
Stephen Root | Agent Flanagan |
Paul Rust | Albert Anderson |
Timm Sharp | The Gun Dealer |
Eduardo Franco | Greg Garcia |
Where to Watch Queenpins?
You can watch Queenpins on Apple TV, Google Play Store, Amazon Prime Video and Youtube.