Tin Men

Tin Men is a classic American film released in 1987, set in the vibrant city of Baltimore in 1963. The ingenious film, directed by Barry Levinson, offers a discerning exploration of human nature, morality, and the never-ending pursuit of the American dream. Featuring an outstanding performance by renowned actors Richard Dreyfuss, Danny DeVito, and Barbara Hershey, Tin Men still holds considerable appeal for audiences, decades after its release.

Tin Men opens with an accidental collision, a minor car accident that helps to spearhead the plot. The accident ignites a bitter, relentless feud between its key characters—BB "Babs" Babowsky and Ernest Tilley—who are remarkably portrayed by Richard Dreyfuss and Danny DeVito, respectively. Their chance encounter leads to an escalating spiral of retaliatory antics, showcasing the breadth of their pettiness and mutual animosity. It's essential to note that both men are 'tin men,’ a colloquial term for aluminum siding salesmen.

As the film unfolds, the audience is given intriguing insights into the somewhat deceptive, high-pressure tactics employed by veteran salesmen of the era. Both Babowsky and Tilley revel in the hustle and flow of their respective jobs as they artfully exploit human vulnerabilities to make their sales, highlighting the dog-eat-dog nature of the business world.

Adding to the complexity of the plot, the subplot introduces a love triangle. BB Babowsky finds himself falling head over heels for Tilley's wife, Nora, played by Barbara Hershey. This romance angle adds another layer of tension and drama to the already high-stakes rivalry between Babowsky and Tilley. However, this part of the storyline is handled with subtlety, further enhancing the overall narrative.

Yet, Tin Men is not purely about rivalry and salesmanship. The film takes a deep, poignant dive into personal growth and maturity, nudging the characters to step back and reassess their priorities and life choices. Barry Levinson masterfully walks a tightrope between drama and comedy, weaving humorous scenes into instances of introspection and self-discovery without losing the film’s profundity. At its core, the film is a study of flawed men trying to make sense of their pasts while navigating a rapidly changing present.

Danny DeVito and Richard Dreyfuss deliver memorable performances, effortlessly capturing the fragile egos, competitive natures, and questionable ethics of their characters. Each actor imbues his character with his own unique charm and charisma, making both Babowsky and Tilley engaging and at times, even sympathetic figures despite their many misgivings. One cannot overlook Barbara Hershey, who plays Nora with an alluring reserve and grace that perfectly counterbalances the excesses of her co-stars.

Levinson's acclaimed storytelling and the ability to exhibit human behavior and relationships are notably exemplified in Tin Men. Levinson's Baltimore is depicted as a coalescing blend of extremes—a city teeming with opportunity and potential for success but also rampant with cutthroat competition and sometimes dishonest business practices. In this accurately portrayed microcosm of mid-20th century America, Levinson weaves a story that is at once hilarious, touching, and revealing.

Aside from its captivating plot and outstanding performances, Tin Men also boasts an evocative, classic soundtrack that helps mark the film's setting in time and space. The score, featuring classics from the early '60s, serves as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding narrative.

Tin Men is an excellent example of a character-driven film that balances comedy and drama while tackling complex issues such as integrity, traditions, ambition, and romance. Thirty-plus years since its release, this classic comedy-drama continues to resonate with audiences, providing an entertaining, insightful, and rich cinematic experience. It's a must-watch for those who appreciate nostalgic portrayals of the past, dealing with the vivacious hustle and bustle of the pre-internet era, highlighting the simplicity and complexity of human nature, interspersed with humor and wisdom.