Delirious

Delirious is a unique blend of comedy, romance, and drama that fuses reality with the world of soap opera. This 1991 film, directed by Tom Mankiewicz, stars the inimitable John Candy in a role that takes us on an unpredictable and hilarious journey through the topsy-turvy world of daytime television.

Candy plays Jack Gable, a sardonic soap opera writer for the famous daytime drama "Beyond Our Dreams." Jack is beset with the classic creative's paradox — despite having complete control over the fictitious universe he's created, his real life is far from perfection. Frustrated, under-appreciated, and nursing an unrequited love for the show's leading lady, Laura Claybourne (Emma Samms), Jack yearns for the ability to rewrite his own life.

Following a freak accident that results in a concussion, Jack inexplicably wakes up in the very world he has been scripting for so long: his soap opera. It's an absurd and surreal reality where the line between fiction and life blurs. Jack encounters the characters he's created for "Beyond Our Dreams," and discovers a typewriter with the magical ability to shape the narrative of this world. Whatever he writes on it materializes, leading to hilarious and often chaotic results.

This newfound power helps Jack to stage zany plot twists that rival even the most melodramatic episodes of his soap opera. He frolics through coruscating scenes peppered with love triangles, over-the-top rivalries, amnesia, mistaken identities, and even attempted murders. Suddenly, Jack's day job as a writer for a daytime drama feels like a walk in the park compared to living inside one.

Laura Claybourne, the soap opera diva who doesn't even notice Jack in real life, emerges as his love interest in this make-believe universe. However, his plans to woo Laura are threatened by the sudden arrival of an outsider. Enter Mariel Hemingway as the warmhearted and spirited Janet, who, in a refreshing contrast to the exaggerated world of soap, exudes genuineness and sincerity. Janet's arrival in the picture deftly upends Jack’s preconceived ideas about love, inducing him to question whether it’s the glamorous Laura or the endearing Janet who truly deserves his affection.

Delirious does a commendable job of highlighting John Candy's inimitable comedic genius. He seamlessly embodies the out-of-luck scriptwriter trapped in his own creation who then relishes the power to influence this topsy-turvy world. His delightfully wry humor and precise comic timing accentuate the farcical tone of the movie.

In alignment with its soap opera setting, Delirious features a generous dose of over-the-top performances from the supporting cast, including Raymond Burr as the imposing patriarch, Charles Rocket as a troublesome antagonist, and Dylan Baker as an unwitting accomplice in the absurd goings-on.

The film utilizes a clever twist on the concept of reality versus fiction, exploring the desires and existential yearnings of its protagonist in a comedic yet profound manner. This metafictional narrative approach adds depth to the plot amidst the torrent of slapstick humor and romantic misadventures, masking a serious existential question beneath Jack’s farcical dilemmas.

At its heart, Delirious is a whimsical rom-com with elements of fantasy. It's more than just a parody of soap opera tropes — it's also a journey of self-discovery for its protagonist. The film's narrative subtly reiterates the popular adage, "be careful what you wish for," questioning the dichotomy of choice and fate, control and surrender.

The film constantly shuffles between reality and a dream-like sequence, adding a surreal charm that leaves audiences enthralled and amused. The infectious humor, combined with a quirky storyline and an unforgettable comedic performance from Candy, ensures that Delirious is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

In summary, Delirious is a delightful, madcap comedy that offers an uncomplicated but interesting ride. Candy's performance, coupled with the unique take on daytime soap operas, makes it a memorable movie-going experience. Whether you're a fan of John Candy, a lover of comedy or simply someone searching for an entertaining way to spend a couple of hours, Delirious is an excellent pick.