Cadillac Man, released on May 18, 1990, is a comedy-drama that showcases Robin Williams‘ manic energy and comedic talent, alongside a memorable performance by Tim Robbins. The film unfolds in a chaotic car dealership setting, blending humor with a hostage situation.
Williams stars as Joey O’Brien, a fast-talking, womanizing car salesman who finds himself in a desperate situation. Joey is under pressure to sell a dozen cars in two days to save his job. He delivers a performance that is both frenetic and heartfelt, capturing the character’s charm and vulnerability.
Robbins plays Larry, a jealous and unstable husband who enters the dealership armed, creating a hostage situation. He brings a nervous energy and unpredictable edge to the role, providing a compelling contrast to Williams’s more comedic approach.
The dynamic between Williams and Robbins is a highlight of the film, as their characters engage in a tense and often darkly humorous confrontation.
Annabella Sciorra portrays Donna, the object of Larry’s obsession and the center of the film’s escalating conflict.
Pamela Reed plays Tina, Joey’s ex-wife, with whom he maintains a complicated relationship.
Lori Petty appears as Lila, one of Joey’s girlfriends, while Fran Drescher delivers her signature nasal-voiced comedic style as Joy, another woman in Joey’s life.
Paul Guilfoyle features as the police captain trying to manage the hostage situation.
Director Roger Donaldson, known for films like No Way Out and Cocktail, brings a sense of energy and pacing to Cadillac Man. He balances the film’s comedic elements with the suspenseful hostage situation, maintaining a sense of momentum throughout the narrative. While the film is primarily character-driven, Donaldson’s direction keeps the story moving and engaging.
Robin Williams in Cadillac Man (Photo/Orion Pictures)
Reception for Cadillac Man
Cadillac Man grossed $6.7 million on its opening weekend, finishing second at the box office behind Bird on a Wire ($15.3 million) and ahead of Pretty Woman ($6.3 million) in its ninth weekend.
The film would gross $27.6 million in its theatrical run.
Legacy
Cadillac Man mixes traditional comedic elements with a more tense, dramatic plot. The film’s humor arises from Joey’s desperate attempts to manage the crisis, while also juggling his personal life and sales career. The hostage situation allows for a blend of dark comedy and suspense, as the characters navigate the increasingly absurd circumstances.
