Recommendations are a powerful thing. Today’s film is one that I have known about for at least 15 years but had never taken the time to watch. However, I decided that with the new year it was time to experience new things and remedy that situation. To summarize the experience, all I can say is that I regret not watching this film 15 years ago when I first heard of it! Now, let’s take a deep dive. This is Tommy Boy!
Tommy Boy was released in March 1995. It was written by Bonnie and Terry Turner, while the score was created by David Newman and produced by Lorne Michaels. The film stars Chris Farley, David Spade, Bo Derek, and Dan Aykroyd along with an uncredited performance from Rob Lowe. Distribution was through Paramount Pictures.
The plotline is as follows: When the charismatic head of Callahan suddenly passes away, his company falls into dire straits and is about to be sold to a corporate competitor. The company’s only hope is the dimwitted Tommy Callahan. Thus, the film leads the audience wondering: Can he succeed his father and save the company?
The premise is simple, and the characters are likeable enough to carry out the plot. Tommy Boy at its heart is a comedy film, so there is no shortage of jokes or visual gags, but it also isn’t afraid to make some powerful, emotional points. I was pleasantly surprised by some of the film’s emotional appeals, and I became invested in how they would play out.
Lead character Tommy is forced to go through a massive transition in this film. After barely graduating college in seven years, he is thrust into the cutthroat world of business. He experiences numerous failures as he struggles to acclimate to the new environment, and he has significant doubts about whether he can live up to his father’s legacy. His character arc from well-intentioned simpleton to charismatic company leader and CEO is powerful, and I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the film.
With a comedy film, it’s extremely important for the jokes to land. Tommy Boy mostly succeeds on this front. The performances of Spade and Farley gives us some truly great comedic bits as well as heartfelt character interactions. I will admit that I don’t think every joke lands, but believe that the vast majority of jokes find their mark. Regardless of whether or not you laugh, the film is unapologetic about its jokes as well as overall tone, which shows a confidence that I greatly respect.
The score itself is pretty amazing in my opinion. It has a lot of variety with songs from the likes of Gene Simmons, the Goo Goo Dolls, and the Carpenters, to name a few. The varied soundtrack means there is something for everyone. The film’s original compositions are nothing to snuff at either. I’ve already ordered the soundtrack for myself because I love it so much.
Tommy Boy grossed a total of $32 million against a budget of $20 million, turning a light profit. The film garnered mixed reception from critics, but it was generally well received by audiences and has gone on to become a cult classic. Tommy Boy is a fantastic film that I can’t recommend enough. In fact, I’ve partnered with Amazon to bring you a specialized purchase link for Tommy Boy. These links help to support my reviews at no extra cost to you!
