Melvin and Howard

Melvin and Howard is a 1980 American comedy-drama film directed by Jonathan Demme. The film stars a talented cast which includes Paul Le Mat, Jason Robards, and Elizabeth Cheshire. It's a lovable combination of fact and fiction, drama and comedy, reality and surrealism.

The film tells the story of its titular character, Melvin Dummar (Paul Le Mat), an affable, perennially down on his luck Nevada milkman who seems to never break free of his coin-flip economic status. The film accurately portrays the atmosphere of the late 70s, interweaving the struggles and simple joys of the working-class American experience during this era.

One night, the everyday life of Melvin is interrupted when he finds a dejected, semi-conscious old man in the middle of the desert. Melvin, being the good samaritan, helps this stranger and drives him to the city of Las Vegas. During the journey, the bearded stranger introduces himself as Howard Hughes, the famously reclusive billionaire aviator and film producer. However, Melvin only half-believes him and soon forgets about the incident, going on with his daily life.

The film captures Melvin's ups and downs as he grapples with his dysfunctional personal life and his perpetual quest for the American dream. Melvin's life circles around different jobs, marriage, divorce, remarrying and trying his luck in game shows; all while maintaining his unfalteringly optimistic outlook towards life. Paul Le Mat is marvelously compelling in his portrayal of Melvin, and his performance ensures that audiences root for this hard-luck character who is always looking for the big break that could change his life.

In this journey, a range of engaging characters come alive, especially Howard Hughes, portrayed brilliantly by Jason Robards. Robards's portrayal of Hughes is fascinating, capturing Hughes' erratic, eccentric persona, and his enigmatic personality that was so well-known in Hollywood circles.

Elizabeth Cheshire offers a heartfelt portrayal of Melvin’s first wife, Lynda. Their complex relationship provides a truthful reflection of real-life problems and hardships in maintaining romantic relationships amidst economic stress. The encounters and conversations between Lynda and Melvin add emotional depth to the storyline, further immersing the viewer into their world.

The central narrative of the film takes an unexpected turn when a supposed handwritten will of Howard Hughes is brought to public attention and Melvin Dummar is listed as one of the beneficiaries. Melvin is thrust into the media spotlight, suddenly attracting the national attention that he was certainly not prepared for. The narrative then revolves around whether Hughes' will is authentic and if Melvin's brief meeting with Hughes was actually a life-changing encounter.

The film weaves these storylines together in a manner that skillfully oscillates between melancholy and exhilaration. It's a warm, richly-textured film that turns a character study into a wider commentary on American dreams and the conflicting forces of fame, fortune, and personal happiness.

Melvin and Howard is also sprinkled with an outstanding soundtrack with several lively country and rock 'n' roll numbers that enrich the film’s distinctive mood and are perfectly aligned with the film's theme and setting.

Jonathan Demme's direction offers a superb balance of humor and pathos, presenting a believable domestic struggle with sincerity and tenderness. Demme also utilizes the expansive desert landscapes to contrast with the humdrum of city life, adding a visual commentary to Melvin's story.

In conclusion, Melvin and Howard is a humanistic, affecting portrayal of ordinary individuals caught up in extraordinary situations, and their struggle to navigate fame, wealth, and the pursuit of happiness. This film remains a hidden gem from the 1980 era of cinema that's worth watching not only for its compelling storyline but also for its fine performances, especially the exemplary work by Le Mat and Robards. Melvin and Howard offers a delightful, poignant investigation into the American psyche, a tribute to the eternal dreamers and good samaritans that populate this journey called life.