Walk Like a Man

Walk Like a Man, directed by Melvin Frank in 1987, is a light-hearted comedy featuring a memorable performance by the impeccable cast: Christopher Lloyd, Howie Mandel, and Cloris Leachman.

In this unique comedy, Howie Mandel, well-known for his comedic talents and infectious enthusiasm, plays Bobo Shand, a man who's just about as ordinary as they come, save for one significant detail: he was raised by wolves. In an inadvertent throwback to the Tarzan mythology, Bobo’s strange upbringing sets the premise for hilariously unpredictable events surrounding his inevitable encounter with the human world.

Bobo's life takes a sharp U-turn when he's discovered by Penny (Amy Steel), an animal behaviorist who spots the oddbird as he’s looking for food in a garbage dumpster. Recognizing that Bobo isn't just an eccentric man but possibly a feral child, Penny sees this discovery as an opportunity for professional advancement and takes him under her wing.

Our beloved manic scientist, Christopher Lloyd, known profoundly for his iconic role in Back to the Future, swerves into the life of this targeted wolf-man as Bobo's long-lost brother. When the pair meet, the movie takes a comedic but humanistic turn as it dives into the heart of family drama and the crude manifestation of money's power in human relationships. Lloyd's character aims to take advantage of Bobo's lack of societal knowledge to seize the family fortune legally destined for Bobo.

Both Christopher Lloyd and Howie Mandel bring their distinct comedic styles to the film and alongside Cloris Leachman's invigorating presence, as the matriarch, and Amy Steel's grounded performance, the dynamics among the characters create a joyride filled with tension, hilarity, and moments of surprising tenderness.

While the film includes lots of lighthearted humor, Walk Like a Man doesn't shy away from deeper themes. It questioningly explores the roots of humanity and the natural conflict between animalistic instincts and learned social behavior, making a snide commentary on society's so-called ‘civilization.’ Through Bobo's lens, we're given a fresh perspective on the accepted norms of society, facilitating a thought-provoking look at our customs and values.

Director Melvin Frank and writers Robert Klane and Leonardo Bercovici astoundingly blend slapstick humor, memorable characters, and deep-seated family drama together to create a film that is as charmingly amusing as it is meaningful. Their work truly shines through Mandel’s outrageous comedic performance and Lloyd’s scheming funny-bone tingling character.

Walk Like a Man relishes in its wild concept, manipulating it for maximum comedic value without losing sight of the story's heart. The movie sincerely highlights the idea of the importance of family, the struggle of sibling rivalry, and acceptance, regardless of one's past and unconventional upbringing.

The cinematography captures the essence of the '80s vibe while the soundtrack incorporates a range of music that sets the mood for the story perfectly, complementing the myriad of visually comedic moments. As for the settings, it smoothly transitions from the wilderness, emphasizing the contrast between Bobo's past and his new life in the bustling city.

The supporting cast also shines in their roles, enhancing an already vivid, well-rounded story and adding depth to Walk Like a Man. Their performances, especially those of Stephen Elliott, Earl Boen, and Colleen Camp, help the film maintain its momentum, presenting subplots that keep audiences engaged.

Surviving over time, the movie doesn’t fail to entertain audiences with its enjoyable plotline, heart-warming moments, comedic touches, and engaging characters. Walk Like a Man remains a gleefully eccentric '80s comedy that promises to make us laugh while subtly shedding light on deeper and darker aspects of humanity. From Mandel's wild antics as Bobo to Lloyd's engaging performance as a conniving brother, every moment is full of unexpected surprises and hearty laughs.

In summary, Walk Like a Man is a dynamic comedy that gives its audience a good laugh, while at the same time presenting a heart-warming story about rediscovering one's humanity. Its winning combination of hilarity, heartfelt moments, and engaging characters make it timeless, ensuring its humor and themes continue to resonate even after the end credits roll, remaining in the hearts of its audience.