Opportunity Knocks

Opportunity Knocks, released in 1990, is a comedy flick that showcases the expressive comic talents of Dana Carvey, who gained fame on the long-running sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live. The versatile comedian plays the role of a smart and witty con artist named Eddie Farrell. Alongside Carvey, the feature film includes acclaimed actor Robert Loggia and Todd Graff, who have delivered memorable performances.

The film starts by skipping through Eddie's hustled life where he masterfully cons people on the streets of Chicago. Eddie's partner in deception, Lou Pestoni, skilfully played by James Tolkan, complements Eddie's antics, making the duo an expert team of tricksters. Their world of petty crimes and deception comes crashing down when they get on the wrong side of the hardened criminal, 'Mona' played by Doris Belack; she is not hesitant to use violent methods to make them pay their debts.

In an attempt to evade her wrath, the opportunistic Eddie, coupled with his friend Lou, stumbles upon an empty mansion in an affluent neighborhood, unsuspecting that it belongs to a regular businessman out of town. Eddie temporarily poses as the house-sitter when interacting with the somewhat nosy and privileged neighbours. The twist arrives when the owner's prospective in-laws, the wealthy and influential McCallisters pay an unanticipated visit. Thinking on his feet, Eddie skillfully adopts the identity of the haughty house owner and gets embroiled in a series of comical and complicated situations, effectively setting the comedic pace for the film.

Stepping into the shoes of a cabinetry business magnate comes naturally to Eddie as he flawlessly pulls off business meetings with millionaire clients. He ends up being entangled with the McCallister's daughter, Mona, portrayed by Julia Campbell. Though initially driven by the desire to keep up the façade, he gradually develops genuine feelings for her, added by the complicated web of lies and deception he is caught up in.

Robert Loggia, as Mr. McCallister, the pragmatic patriarch of the wealthy family, stands as a contrasting figure to Eddie's flexible morals and pragmatic survival instincts. His performance adds a sense of gravitas and predicates the conflict Eddie faces within himself as his counterfeit life gets more tangled up with real emotions and connections.

As Eddie moves deeper into the web of his personally engineered lies, he must reconcile with the impending reality that his true identity may sooner or later be revealed. He is compelled to question his choices, reconsider his way of living, and to think about what he truly wants from life and love.

The film showcases Carvey's versatile talents, blending a mix of impersonations, accents, and physical comedy. His ability to quickly assume different identities comes to the fore, showcasing the depth of his comedic skillset. The pairing of Carvey alongside the serious Loggia, who delivers an impressively stern performance, provides a strong comedic contrast. Graff also delivers an impressive performance, providing another layer of complexity to the character dynamics.

Opportunity Knocks is an engaging film that seamlessly blends comedy and character-driven storytelling. While revolving around a dishonest protagonist, it explores themes of identity, morality, and personal growth. It uses the conventions of the con artist genre to cleverly devise a comedy of errors.

The film's location, in the city of Chicago, serves as an engaging backdrop to the story, providing an interesting contrast between Eddie's street life and the convoluted high-society existence that he is thrust into. The direction by Donald Petrie keeps the pace at a brisk clip, while keeping the character development and comedy front and center.

Opportunity Knocks is a classic comedic tale that underscores the amusing possibilities that could unravel with a stroke of deception. It's a fun, entertaining ride that reminds viewers not to take life too seriously, yet nudges towards acknowledging the importance of honesty and integrity in relationships.

For all fans of comedy and Carvey's genius, 'Opportunity Knocks' is a testament to a story well told, character development well executed, and a comedy that will keep you hooked throughout. It's a fun-filled journey through a con man's adventure, and a must-watch for those seeking a blend of humor, warmth, and a pleasant cinematic experience.