Garry Marshall‘s comedy-drama Nothing in Common, released in theaters on July 30, 1986, is a poignant and often hilarious exploration of a fractured father-son relationship forced to reconcile. Starring Tom Hanks and Jackie Gleason in his final film role, it’s a touching story about family, aging, and the surprising bonds that can form when circumstances demand it.
The film centers on David Basner (Hanks), a hotshot advertising executive in Chicago who is on the fast track to success. He is charming, self-absorbed, and devoted to his career. His life of professional triumphs and casual relationships is interrupted by a series of phone calls from his parents, which he mostly ignores.
However, David is forced to return home when his mother, Lorraine (Eva Marie Saint), leaves his father, Max (Gleason), after 36 years of marriage. Max, a difficult and stubborn man who runs a small tailor shop, is in poor health and struggles to cope with the separation.
David, initially annoyed by the interruption to his busy life, finds himself unexpectedly saddled with the responsibility of caring for his estranged father.
Tom Hanks and Jackie Gleason in Nothing in Common (Photo/TriStar Pictures)
The film’s humor and drama stem from the clash of these two personalities. David, with his modern, fast-paced life, has to learn to deal with Max’s old-fashioned ways and cantankerous nature. The journey is a mix of frustration and unexpected moments of connection.
The film features a strong supporting cast, including Hector Elizondo as David’s boss, Charlie Gargas, Barry Corbin as the gruff but kind-hearted businessman Andrew Woolridge, Bess Armstrong as Donna Mildred, Sela Ward as David’s client Cheryl Ann Wayne and John Kapelos as a commercial director. As Max’s health deteriorates, David is forced to confront the harsh reality of their fractured relationship and the importance of family.
Reception for Nothing in Common
Nothing in Common grossed $3.3 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 8 at the domestic box office in limited release of 618 screens. The top film of the weekend was Aliens ($7.1 million).
The film would gross $32.3 million in its theatrical run.
Legacy
Nothing in Common is known for its status as a pivotal film in Hanks’ career, marking his successful transition from purely comedic roles to a leading man capable of both humor and profound dramatic depth.
Gleason’s final performance is both powerful and heartbreaking, showcasing his incredible talent for blending comedy with deep emotion.
The film is remembered for its touching and honest portrayal of the complexities of a father-son dynamic, particularly the difficulties of caring for an aging parent. Its enduring appeal lies in its relatable and timeless themes of family responsibility, reconciliation, and the realization that what truly matters is often what we have taken for granted.
