Nothing Personal

Nothing Personal is a captivating 1980 comedic film brought to life by the superb performances of its lead actors, mythical Hollywood actor Donald Sutherland and popular comedy and television actress Suzanne Somers. Directed by George Bloomfield, this production illustrates a unique collision of worlds between an environmental lawyer and an eccentric career woman who find themselves in an unusual alliance.

The movie swirls around the life of suave legal advocate Michael Donovan, played by Donald Sutherland. Donovan is an educated, high-achieving lawyer who is passionate about his work, with a keen interest in environmental matters. His work shows him embattled with high profile cases involving large corporations found polluting the environment. Between wrestling with dark-suited executives in courtrooms and negotiating with stern-faced prosecutors behind the scenes, Donovan's world is filled with serious talks and stern deliberations. His life takes a noteworthy turn, finding him in an unlikely partnership with an out-of-norm character played by Suzanne Somers.

Suzanne Somers portrays the lively, vibrant, and somewhat eccentric career woman named Susan Berlanger. She is a woman marked by her unpredictable nature and spontaneous zest for life. Strolling through life with an abundance of confidence and a sense of humor that keeps audiences laughing, Berlanger's character is the counterweight to the gravity of Donovan's profession. Somers' performance is undoubtedly a cornerstone of the comic relief in the film, and it is her character's whimsical actions that set the stage for an unexpected alliance with Donovan.

As the storyline expands, Donovan and Berlanger find themselves crossing paths in a comical stir of unforeseen circumstances leading to an unexpected alliance. The ensuing narrative is a tale of how two polar opposites navigate their differences and find themselves entangled in scenarios that test their individual beliefs and principles. The result is a mix of sharp banter, humorous exchanges, and, in the midst of it all, the discovery of a unique bond that keeps the audience engaged.

Amidst the bouts of laughter provided by Somers' sunny disposition and Donovan's wry wit lies an undercurrent of social commentary. Nothing Personal gains merit not just as a comedy but also as an exploration of serious environmental themes. The narrative sensitively showcases the corporate world's role in environmental degradation and the struggle of conscientious individuals striving to make meaningful changes.

Not to be dismissed as merely a comedy, the film touches on societal issues of the time and explores the lengths at which people go to stand up for what they believe in. The dynamic between Somers and Sutherland showcases an array of emotions that allows the audience to sympathetically resonate with the characters' struggles. With Somers' infectious energy and Sutherland's stoic demeanor offering a delightful contrast, their on-screen interactions provide both humorous and dramatic moments that greatly enhance the narrative's depth and complexity.

A significant supporting role is played by Lawrence Dane, who plays the character of a hardnosed corporate executive. Dane’s character's interactions with Sutherland's Donovan presents another layer of depth to the movie, revealing the bitter face-off between personal ethics and corporate interests. Dane's portrayal of a ruthless businessman is powerful and leaves a lasting impression on the audience. His performance offers a nuanced commentary on 1980s corporate culture and its implications on the environment.

Overall, with the intriguing balance of comedy and drama, Nothing Personal is a movie that goes beyond the realm of light entertainment. It achieves a delicate fusion of humor and social narrative that effectively engages and piques the interest of the viewers. The unforgettable performances of Sutherland, Somers, and Dane add a special touch to the film. Nothing Personal is a 1980s cinematic offering that compellingly combines elements of comedy, drama, and social commentary, making it a delight to watch for audiences of varied tastes.