Chances Are (1989), directed by Emile Ardolino, is a whimsically sophisticated romantic comedy that breathes fresh life into the classic “reincarnation” trope. Released during a golden era for high-concept comedies, the film distinguishes itself with a breezy, lighthearted tone and a genuine emotional core.
It manages to balance the inherent absurdity of its premise with a sincere exploration of enduring love and the complexities of memory and remains a definitive example of late-80s cinema, blending supernatural elements with a grounded, heartfelt domestic drama that explores whether the soul truly has a second act.
The story begins in the early 1960s, where Louie Jeffries (Christopher McDonald) is a happily married man whose life is cut short in a tragic accident.
Upon reaching heaven’s “processing center,” a clerical error allows Louie to be reborn immediately without the usual memory-wiping procedure.
Fast-forward twenty years, and Louie is now Alex Finch (Robert Downey Jr.), a bright, aspiring journalist who just graduated from college.
By chance, Alex meets Miranda (Mary Stuart Masterson), the daughter of Louie’s widow, Corinne (Cybill Shepherd).
When Alex is invited back to Corinne’s home, the familiar surroundings trigger a flood of memories from his previous life.
He realizes he is the reincarnated spirit of Louie, and he finds himself in an impossible predicament: he is still deeply in love with his former wife, Corinne, but is being pursued by his current-life peer, Miranda.
The situation is further complicated by Philip Train (Ryan O’Neal), Louie’s best friend who has spent the last two decades silently pining for Corinne.
As Alex attempts to prove his true identity to a skeptical Corinne while dodging the advances of his own daughter, the film spirals into a comedy of manners and mistaken identities.
With supporting turns by Josef Sommer as Judge Harrison Fenwick and Joe Grifasi as Omar, the narrative builds to a poignant realization about moving on and the importance of living for the present.
Fran Ryan, Marc McClure and Gianni Russo round out the cast.
Robert Downey Jr. and Cybill Shepherd in Chances Are (Photo/TriStar Pictures)
Reception for Chances Are
Chances Are grossed $3.7 million on its opening weekend, finishing fourth at the box office.
The film would gross $16.3 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave Chances Are three and a half out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Chances Are‘s legacy lies in its status as a breakout leading role for Downey Jr., whose effortless charm and physical comedy hinted at the superstar trajectory his career would eventually take.
It is also remembered for the luminous performance of Shepherd, who perfectly captured the elegance and vulnerability of a woman caught between her past and her future.
The film’s legacy persists through its iconic theme song, “After All,” performed by Cher and Peter Cetera, which became a staple of wedding playlists for decades.
Chances Are remains a beloved cult favorite for fans of “soulmate” cinema, celebrated for its witty script and its gentle, life-affirming conclusion and it stands as a nostalgic reminder of a time when romantic comedies relied on clever writing and genuine chemistry to cast a lasting spell on the audience.
