Men at Work, released in theaters on August 24, 1990, is a buddy comedy written and directed by Emilio Estevez. The film stars Charlie Sheen as Carl Taylor and Estevez as James St. James, two eccentric sanitation workers who spend their days spying on their neighbors.
Their lives are turned upside down when they stumble upon a dead body in a trash can and decide to investigate on their own. The body belongs to local politician Jack Berger (Darrell Larson) who was murdered and happens to be the same man they’d seen the previous night with their neighbor Susan Wilkins (Leslie Hope).
Carl and James find themselves in a dangerous situation as they become a target for both the corrupt officials who want to cover up the murder and the mobsters who want to get rid of them.
Keith David stands out as Louis, Carl and James’ supervisor’s brother-in-law, who is assigned to be their observer.
John Getz is Maxwell Potterdam III, a corrupt businessman who has been illegally dumping toxic waste.
The duo, with their laid-back attitudes and unusual methods, must outsmart a group of bad guys to survive.
Cameron Dye, Sy Richardson and Dean Cameron round out the cast.
The film’s strength lies in the natural and effortless chemistry between Sheen and Estevez, who are brothers in real life.
Their comedic timing is impeccable and their on-screen banter is a joy to watch.
The film is a lighthearted and fun ride, and it works because it doesn’t take itself too seriously and is a charming product of its time.
Charlie Sheen, Emilio Estevez and Keith David in Men at Work (Photo/Triumph Releasing Corp.)
Reception for Men at Work
Men at Work grossed $3.2 million on its opening weekend, finishing in eighth place at the box office.
The film would gross $16.2 million in its theatrical run during the epic summer of 1990’s blockbusters lineup.
Legacy
Men at Work has become a cult classic and while it was not a massive commercial success, it has become a beloved film for fans of the comedy duo.
It’s remembered for its quirky premise, its hilarious dialogue, and its fun, lighthearted tone and is a great film for a lazy afternoon.
