After he's laid off and his wife secures a job in advertising,
a husband must adjust to his new life as a stay-at-home dad. COMEDY
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Mr. Mom (1983)Directed by Stan Dragoti
Written by John Hughes Starring Michael Keaton, Teri Garr, Martin Mull, Jeffrey Tambor, Ann Jillian, Frederick Koehler, Taliesin Jaffe, Christopher Lloyd, Tom Leopold, Graham Jarvis |
In anybody else's hands, Mr. Mom would've been just another average, forgettable 80's comedy. It's ultimately Michael Keaton's charisma and impeccable comedic timing that help elevate this uproarious comedy to cult classic status. It deals with the classic role reversal trope, a situation that was outrageous and movie-worthy in the 80's. However, the impressive cast and funny script penned by 80's icon John Hughes helps keep Mr. Mom from becoming either offensive or irrelevant.
Michael Keaton plays Jack Butler, who is let go from his job at a car factory just as his wife Caroline (Teri Garr) gets a job in advertising. Now Jack has to take on the role of a stay-at-home dad, despite a complete lack of household knowledge. While at first, it's funny to watch Jack fumble at the controls, so to speak, the heart of the film comes from the mutual realization that Jack and Caroline eventually have regarding the importance of family. Keaton is just such a likable and charming guy that you're on his team no matter what. He's always had that kind of presence, even in villainous roles. With extended cameos from Jeffrey Tambor and Christopher Lloyd and a comedic bad guy role from Martin Mull, Mr. Mom is consistently funny, witty, and enjoyable from beginning to end. It's up there with some of Keaton's other great 80's comedies like Night Shift and Beetlejuice. Definitely a fun watch with a life lesson or two about family and loyalty. |