Hot to Trot

Hot to Trot is a comedy film that hit the screens in 1988, directed by Michael Dinner, known for his work on TV series such as Justified and The Wonder Years. Hot to Trot stars comedian Bobcat Goldthwait, known for his unique high-pitched voice and erratic style of comedy, as the film's lead. His character, Fred P. Cheney, lends a great deal of comedic charm to the movie. Alternative casting choices were considered for Fred, including comedian Sam Kinison and actor Tom Hanks. However, Goldthwait's offbeat, manic energy deemed him the best fit for the role and truly makes the film a wacky spectacle of hilarity.

Opposite Goldthwait, we see the talented actor Dabney Coleman playing the part of Mr. Rodell, Fred's unfair and overbearing boss. Coleman is well known for his roles in other classic 1980s films, such as War Games and 9 to 5. He plays Mr. Rodell with a mix of slick smoothness and sinister opportunism, maintaining an antagonistic relationship with Fred that guides much of the plot.

However, the most unique and memorable aspect of Hot to Trot is undeniably the character of Don, a talking horse voiced by one of the most iconic comedic actors of the 80s, John Candy. Candy, known for his roles in films like Planes, Trains and Automobiles and Uncle Buck, serves as the unseen but not unheard sidekick to Goldthwait's character. Don's ability to communicate only with Fred sets the stage for unpredictable humor and plenty of zany scenarios.

The plot of Hot to Trot is built around a convoluted yet hilarious series of events that occur after Fred Cheney inherits half of his mother's stock brokerage company and a horse named Don from his estranged, oddball father. The other half of the business falls into the slippery hands of Fred's unlikable stepfather, Mr. Rodell. This inheritance comes with its own unique challenges, as Fred is expected to take control of a company, all while dealing with a new four-legged friend who happens to communicate exclusively with him.

Don, however, is no ordinary horse. He possesses an uncanny knack for predicting stock market trends. Fred, initially unsure of how to use Don's unique talents, finally comes to realize the potential lingering in this quirk, and the two become a peculiar yet effective team.

The film follows Fred and Don's adventurous journey in the ruthless world of stock market trading and corporate power. As they try to outwit the shady, villainous tactics of Fred's stepfather, the pair's unusual friendship serves as a consistent source of laughter and light-hearted fun. There are plenty of ups and downs, laughs, a little bit of romance, and plenty of heartfelt moments throughout the movie.

Michael Dinner's direction is in full swing in Hot to Trot. The film exudes an indisputable charm, indicating his notable attention to fostering a lively atmosphere throughout the narrative. Steve Tisch, one of the producers of the film, who later went on to produce critically acclaimed shows like Forrest Gump and American History X, added an invaluable touch of creativity in guiding Hot to Trot from script to screen.

Hot to Trot is very much a product of its time, exemplified through its '80s appeal, flamboyant aesthetics, and extravagant hairstyles. The film captures the spirit of a classic decade of cinema, evoking nostalgia and delivering a unique spin on the comedic genre.

The film blends surreal humor with a touching friendship, leaving you in high spirits and yearning for the retro cinema of the eighties. The performances and comedic timing of Goldthwait, Coleman, and Candy are undeniably the highlight of the film, bringing giggles with their zaniness while indulging you with an undercurrent of silliness and warmth that extends beyond the wild premise.

In conclusion, Hot to Trot is both an underappreciated gem of the late 1980s and a tribute to the era's unique style of comedy. It makes for a light, enjoyable watch and serves as a distinct testament to the comedic skills of its talented cast.