Speechless, released in theaters on Dec, 16, 1994, is a delightful romantic comedy that finds humor and heart in the highly competitive and often absurd world of political campaigning. The film succeeds through its smart script and the wonderfully snappy, screwball-style chemistry between its two charismatic leads, Michael Keaton and Geena Davis.
The film is set in New Mexico, where two high-powered and equally sharp political speechwriters meet and clash—and, inevitably, fall in love. Julia Mann (Davis) works for a liberal, Democratic Senate candidate, while Kevin Vallick (Keaton) writes for the opposing, conservative Republican candidate.
They first meet by chance in the middle of the night, while separately trying to find a pharmacy to refill prescriptions for sleeping pills. Instantly drawn to each other, they spend a romantic night together, sharing confidences and engaging in sparkling, witty banter.
Their immediate, electric connection is disrupted when they discover the next morning that they are working for rival campaigns – Kevin for Senator Ray Garvin (Ray Baker) and Julia for Senator Lloyd Wannamaker (Mitchell Ryan).
Their professional rivalry quickly ramps up, forcing them to become experts at sabotage and espionage, constantly trying to steal each other’s ideas and outmaneuver the other’s campaign.
Adding complication to Julia’s life is her controlling ex-fiancé, Bob Freed (Christopher Reeve), a handsome and dedicated war correspondent who returns, determined to win her back.
Kevin’s life is equally complicated by his ex-wife, Annette (Bonnie Bedelia).
The entire campaign becomes a hilariously awkward dance of mixed messages, secret meetings, and professional betrayal, all against the backdrop of earnest campaign managers Ernie Hudson and Charles Martin Smith.
As the election nears, Julia and Kevin must confront whether their deeply held ideological differences—and their opposing careers—can coexist with their undeniable, passionate connection.
The film ultimately asks whether love can triumph over the partisan divide.
Harry Shearer, Gailard Sartain and Steven Wright round out the cast.
Ron Underwood (Tremors, City Slickers, Heart and Souls) directed the film.
Michael Keaton and Geena Davis in Speechless (Photo/MGM)
Reception for Speechless
Speechless grossed $3.96 million on its opening weekend, finishing fifth at the box office behind Dumb & Dumber ($16.4 million), The Santa Clause ($8.9 million), Disclosure ($7.3 million) and Drop Zone ($4.02 million).
The film would gross $20.7 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave Speechless two out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Speechless is a modern homage to the fast-paced, verbal fireworks of classic screwball comedies like His Girl Friday. Its enduring legacy lies in the perfect pairing of its stars.
Davis and Keaton, both at the height of their comedic powers, deliver a masterclass in rapid-fire dialogue and physical comedy, making their ideological clashes genuinely funny and their romantic scenes truly charming.
While the political setting is specific to the 90s, the film’s central theme – the tension between personal desire and professional commitment – is timeless, ensuring its place as one of the most enjoyable romantic comedies of its era.
