I Love Trouble, released on June 29, 1994, is a witty, fast-paced romantic comedy and crime thriller that capitalizes on the engaging rivalry and eventual chemistry between two star reporters chasing the same explosive story. Directed by Charles Shyer and co-written by Nancy Meyers, the film is a throwback to classic screwball comedies, trading on snappy dialogue, accidental proximity, and high-stakes espionage.
The story centers on Peter Brackett (Nick Nolte), a seasoned, slightly jaded star columnist for the Chicago Chronicle, known for his charm and his ability to land the big scoop.
His world is immediately complicated by the arrival of Sabrina Peterson (Julia Roberts), a bright, ambitious young reporter for the competing Chicago Globe.
Their professional rivalry is kicked into overdrive when they both arrive at the scene of a seemingly routine train derailment, only to realize the accident is part of a much larger, more dangerous conspiracy.
As they begrudgingly pursue the fragmented clues, Peter and Sabrina find themselves constantly crossing paths, initially attempting to sabotage one another’s efforts.
The investigation leads them into a web of corporate corruption, hidden scientific secrets, and dangerous figures—including a suspicious private investigator (Saul Rubinek) and powerful, untouchable men at the highest levels of business.
They soon realize that their lives are in danger and that their only chance of survival, and of breaking the story, is to form an unlikely alliance.
The film relies heavily on the strength of its supporting cast, featuring familiar faces like Robert Loggia, James Rebhorn, Eugene Levy, Paul Gleason, and Olympia Dukakis, who add texture and comedic relief to the chaotic chase.
Charles Martin Smith, Kelly Rutherford, Keith Gordon, Marsha Mason, Frankie Faison, Stuart Pankin, Nestor Serrano and Clark Gregg round out the cast.
Julia Roberts and Nick Nolte in I Love Trouble (Photo/Touchstone Pictures)
Reception for I Love Trouble
I Love Trouble grossed $7.8 million on its opening weekend, finishing fourth at the box office.
The film would gross $61.9 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave I Love Trouble two and a half out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
The legacy of I Love Trouble is its demonstration of the “opposites attract” dynamic while its two stars notoriously did not get along during filming.
It’s a breezy, high-stakes adventure that proves that sparks can fly, both professionally and personally, when two equally talented rivals are forced to confront danger together.
The film is a fun ride that keeps audiences guessing about both the scoop and the eventual romance.
