The Fortune Cookie (1966)

Kernel Score: 79% · 340 ratings · Rated NR

Genres: Comedy, Drama, Crime

Released: 1966-10-19

Runtime: 125 minutes

Where to watch The Fortune Cookie

  • Stream: Fubo, Philo, YouTube TV, MGM+
  • Free with ads: YouTube Free, Tubi
  • Rent: Apple TV, Spectrum On Demand
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

TV cameraman Harry Hinkle is injured while filming a football game. Seeing big dollar signs, his unscrupulous ambulance-chasing lawyer brother-in-law Willie Gingrich enters the picture, and convinces Harry to overstate his injuries and claim $1 million in pain and suffering. Harry's similarly-minded ex-wife suddenly reappears in an attempt to rekindle their relationship.

The Fortune Cookie parents' guide: ages 8+

Parents need to know that this classic comedy centers on a man pressured by his lawyer brother-in-law to fake a serious injury for an insurance payout.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official NR rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Director

Billy Wilder

Cast

  • Jack Lemmon as Harry Hinkle
  • Walter Matthau as Willie Gingrich
  • Ron Rich as Boom Boom Jackson
  • Judi West as Sandy Hinkle
  • Cliff Osmond as Purkey
  • Lurene Tuttle as Mother Hinkle
  • Harry Holcombe as O'Brien
  • Les Tremayne as Thompson
  • Marge Redmond as Charlotte Gingrich
  • Ann Shoemaker as Sister Veronica

The Fortune Cookie FAQ

Is The Fortune Cookie good?

The Fortune Cookie has a 79% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 340 audience ratings.

Where can I watch The Fortune Cookie?

In the US you can stream The Fortune Cookie on Fubo, Philo, YouTube TV and MGM+, watch it free with ads on YouTube Free and Tubi and rent it from Apple TV and Spectrum On Demand.

Is The Fortune Cookie OK for kids?

The Fortune Cookie is rated NR. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 8+. Parents need to know that this classic comedy centers on a man pressured by his lawyer brother-in-law to fake a serious injury for an insurance payout.

What movies are like The Fortune Cookie?

If you liked The Fortune Cookie, try The Front Page, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Take the Money and Run and Dear Zindagi.