Three salesman converge upon a Wichita hotel suite where they are holding one of those dreadfully boring business get togethers in order to snag a big time client referred to as The Big Kahuna. In the meantime, as they wait for the party they all take turns waxing poetic on life and what it means to be a human being.
What a hidden gem for those who haven’t seen this movie, which I’m guessing would be most people.
This is one of my favorite movies of all time featuring two of my favorite performances from both Kevin Spacey and Danny Devito, and a fine one from Peter Facinelli who you will swear is a young, slightly gawkier and dorky teenage Tom Cruise.
Facinelli plays a young Christian whose every single thought is devoted to winning others into the faith, even at the cost doing business. Spacey plays the salty salesman, Larry, who enters the movie in a tornado of obscenities and interesting anecdotes. Devito plays Phil, Larry’s long time friend going through a divorce, who is the most introspective and reserved the three.
Devito especially here knocks it out of the park with his performance. He conveys sage advice that comes across as sincere and heartfelt, without seeming cloying or hallmark card level pap.
This movie was adapted from a Broadway Play and the vast majority of it occurs inside a hotel suite, with only one or two scenes occurring anywhere else, so visually there’s not a lot here. Actually, let me take that back, Spacey and Devito’s worn and weary faces are enough to carry this movie aesthetically and cinematography wise.
See this one for the great writing and amazing acting.
The Big Kahuna gets a four out of five: GREAT.
Vortainment 