Movers & Shakers

Released in 1985, the Hollywood comedy, Movers & Shakers, brings together an ensemble cast of renowned actors including two-time Academy Award winner Walter Matthau, versatile actor Charles Grodin, and Academy Award nominee Vincent Gardenia. Guided by William Asher - the man behind many of the era’s influential comedy projects - Movers & Shakers promises to be an enjoyable lighthearted comedy for those who appreciate classic humor.

Walter Matthau, famed for his grumpy but loveable characters, steps into the shoes of Joe Mulholland, a Hollywood producer of an unconventional sort. A man ensnared by the often confusing, always entertaining world of entertainment, Joe is tasked with the challenging project of bringing an erotic bestseller, "Love in Sex," to the silver screen.

Charles Grodin, acclaimed for his endearing and often neurotic characters, plays Herb Derman, a successful business executive and close friend of Joe Mulholland. Upon learning about Joe's ambitious project, Herb decides to transition from his comfortable corporate life to the uncertain, dramatic, and unpredictable world of Hollywood. This scenario sets up an intriguing dynamic between the corporate sector and the glamorous, but often cutthroat movie industry, allowing for comedy and humor to easily find their way into the narrative.

Vincent Gardenia, recognized for his commendable supporting roles in films, impeccably dons the character of Sid Spokane, an influential Hollywood mogul. His character serves as the embodiment of the classical movie industry bigwig, and his interactions with Joe and Herb bring about several comedic and dramatic twists to the plot.

The movie navigates the chaotic yet fascinating world of Hollywood where ideas are conceived, scripts evolve, egos clash, and dreams come to life. This portrayal of the film industry showcases its unique blend of art, business, and personalities, capturing the spirit of Hollywood with all its glitz, glamor, and oddities. All of this serves as the backdrop to our inadequate, but determined set of characters who strive to adapt to this whirlwind of a world and deliver their ambitious project.

The actors in Movers & Shakers deliver commendable performances, bringing much-needed authenticity to their characters. Walter Matthau, with his natural comic timing, makes Joe a likeable character, despite his flaws. Charles Grodin brings a certain charm to Herb, striking a delicate balance between his corporate sensibility and a fascination with the new world he has stepped into. And Vincent Gardenia, with his industry-savvy persona, perfectly rounds off the central trio.

Further, the film is also peppered with a host of supporting performances that add to its humor and entertainment quotient. These characters, ranging from eccentric scriptwriters to demanding actors, add a layer of realism to the portrayal of the fast-paced Hollywood industry and lend color to this entertaining take on the movie-making business.

Movers & Shakers cleverly combines humor and drama to paint an entertaining portrait of Hollywood. The screenplay takes viewers behind the scenes and offers a sneak peak into the intricacies of film-making presented through a comedic lens. If you’re a fan of movies about movies, or simply enjoy a classic Hollywood comedy, this 1985 gem brings you the right ingredients - a spirited plot, engaging performances, and a captivating narrative that sparkles with humorous interplays and intriguing twists.

William Asher's well-crafted direction combined with the earnest performances from the cast and an engaging script, makes Movers & Shakers a notable entry in the comedy of its era. Wrapped in satire and dripping with humor, the narrative of Joe, Herb, and Sid's challenging yet entertaining journey towards accomplishing their seemingly impossible task is sure to hold your attention and keep you thoroughly entertained.

Whether you are fascinated by the golden era of Hollywood, or are simply drawn to engaging comedy, Movers & Shakers is a film that effortlessly delivers on both fronts. Be prepared to dive into a whirlpool of Hollywood madness, dazzle, and drama as you sit back and join the entertaining journey of turning a best-selling erotic book into a movie!