Things Are Tough All Over

Things Are Tough All Over is a comedy movie released in 1982 from the director Thomas K. Avildsen and writers Tommy Chong, and Cheech Marin. The film stars two beloved comedians of the era, Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong, alongside the likes of Toni Attell, Mike Bacarella, and Billy Beck. The movie hilariously explores the comedic ordeal of two men who accidentally get embroiled in a world of crime, socio-economic concerns, and romance while highlighting the socio-cultural scenario of the era.

The plot follows two hilarious characters, Cheech and Chong, who are initially shown as two car-washers working in Los Angeles. Due to an unfortunate turn of events, they lose their jobs and start working for an Arab millionaire, Mr. Slyman (Cheech Marin), who also happens to run a stand-up club with his cousin, Mr. Habib (Tommy Chong). Both and Chong fit the bill played by the same actors, and they end up taking on dual roles.

Given a task to deliver a limousine from Chicago to Las Vegas, Cheech and Chong soon realize that the car is stashed with illegal cash. Consequently, their road trip to Las Vegas soon turns into a hilarious adventure filled with interesting and funny characters who they cross paths with. In the middle of these comedic exploits, attention shifts to Mr. Slyman and Mr. Habib, who also travel to Las Vegas. They pursue plans of taking over an empire from a desert sheik with comic adventures of their own.

In terms of performances, Marin and Chong bring to life their caricatures brilliantly with their trademark humor and wit and embody the relentless spirit of the working class. The double performance by Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong, where they play not just the broke car washers but also the wealthy Arabs, adds to the humor of the film. The movie grants them an opportunity to showcase their finesse in comedy and their seasoned ability to imbibe multiple characters with ease.

The supporting cast does an excellent job of complementing the leads. Toni Attell plays the role of Slyman's feisty nightclub partner, adding to the film's comic element, while Mike Bacarella and Billy Beck add to the colourful line-ups, each bringing their unique charm to the flick. George Wallace, as the security guard in the casino, leaves an indelible impression with his comic timing, as does Rip Taylor with his singular ability to cause laughter.

The screenplay of the movie is filled with humor and hilarious situations that are sure to keep the audience amused. The comedic dialogues, combined with Marin and Chong's impeccable comic timing, make the film an amusing watch. The film never loses its pace and continues to engage the audience with its well-crafted comic sequences.

Additionally, the movie is more than just a comedy film. Sprinkled amid the comedy are subtle social commentaries and references to the socio-economic conditions of the time. It could be interpreted as a sarcastic take on the American dream and the extraordinary lengths people go to achieve it. The film, thus, manages to combine entertainment with meaningful undertones, making it more than just a pleasurable watch.

Despite its title, Things Are Tough All Over never focuses on the hardships. Instead, the film becomes a literal road trip, exploring the memorable landscapes of America from the bustling city streets of Chicago to the desolate yet awe-inspiring beauty of the desert highways. And, that's just the backdrop for hilarious situations, from a riotous encounter with a group of rebellious women bikers to crossing paths with an eccentric desert dweller.

In the end, Things Are Tough All Over is unfettered comedic fun, which delivers continuously on laughs while offering a light-hearted reflection on society during the 1980s. Mixing low brow gags with memorable scenarios and clever social commentary, the movie is a quintessential Cheech and Chong comedy — an adventurous ride that’s sure to bring plenty of chuckles along the way.