This one of Tom Hanks' earlier movies, where he stars as Allen Bauer who is looking for true love, and finds it in Madison (Daryl Hannah) whom, unbeknown-st to him, is a mermaid.The romance and chemistry between Allen and Madison are pretty heartfelt and touching, with Allen looking to balance his busy work life and finding a companion to Madison adjusting to life in the city. Her only have seven days to remain in the human world before she returns to the sea serve as a pretty suspenseful backdrop to the story.Not bad acting from Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah, with a steady-paced plot that can be both dramatic and funny. John Candy delivered some humor, though I've found his character a little annoying at times, as well as Eugene Levy. I don't know if filmmakers think actors being overly zealous, frustrated or excited define good acting, because that is exactly what Levy does for much of the movie. He screamed a lot and acted frustrated with everyone he encountered, which I thought was excruciatingly annoying and irritating and brought down the movie. Fortunately, his character was a little redeeming toward the second half of the story.Overall, it's a not a bad classic '80s tale that is good for some mild laughs and romance.Grade B-
... View MoreSplash (1984): Dir: Ron Howard / Cast: Tom Hanks, Daryl Hannah, John Candy, Eugene Levy, Richard B. Shull: Bizarre romantic comedy about events that impact our lives. Tom Hanks plays Allen Bauer who runs a fruit stand with his brother Freddie, played by John Candy. When Allen was a boy he nearly drown but was saved by what he believes was a mermaid. Central plot regards a reconnection with this mermaid when a boating accident ends up with him on shore with a head injury. She takes the name Madison and conceals her identity because she can only form her tail when she is wet. Eugene Levy plays Walter Kornbluth who attempts to expose Madison as a mermaid. His attempts have aggressive yet amusing consequences. Ron Howard elevates beyond his previous directing efforts Grand Theft Auto and Night Shift by creating a genuine sense of romance and acceptance. While the ending draws questions Howard proves capable of bigger challenges. Daryl Hannah brings a stunning innocence as Madison who learns fast but struggles to maintain a concealed identity until it becomes public. Tom Hanks as Allen brings confidence yet bewilderment at this strange beautiful woman. John Candy as Freddie is perverse yet loyal in assisting his brother. Levy brings the pratfalls as Walter who has a change of heart. Other roles are typical but the theme of love and connection make the biggest splash. Score: 8 ½ / 10
... View MoreWhat I really like about Splash is that it doesn't try to be anything more than a laid back comedy. There are too many movies today that attempt at a deeper meaning than necessary. Splash is just a typical 80's romantic comedy that can be fun for all ages. Its led by Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah. During the times that they both communicate the chemistry is great, even with a bit of a rocky start. Of course Hanks and Hannah are the only reason I watched the film. When you read the premise it sounds like a Disney Channel film (I'm looking at you Aqua Marine) so when I ended up watching it I was pleasantly surprised. Now the movie has a lot of eye rolling moments but also a bit of charm to it as well.For beginners I don't understand how the film can be given a PG rating with nudity across the entire 100 minutes, but the script and characters are easy enough to follow for a young age. With that being said you know exactly where the movie is headed, which can be annoying. I did find all the scenes with John Candy to be hilarious but you don't get comedic relief from anywhere else though.But as I have said the film doesn't try to do too much with fish out of water premise. It knows when its silly and it plays off itself. Its not a great movie by any stretch of the imagination but I cant say I'm disappointed with it either.+John Candy+Music brings charm to the romance+doesnt try to do too much-A bit too silly at times-Predictable-PG rating?6.2/10
... View MoreI'm not quite sure why this movie was nominated for best screenplay. Still , the story deserve some praise . The fantasy element brings something new to the genre and the story feels a little different than typical romantic comedy made in Hollywood . It's pure 80's unpretentious fun.Daryl Hannah is convincing as the mermaid . Eugene Levy is nice as the asshole who has a change of heart. This is the movie that began Tom Hanks career . He gives his typical likable average guy performance here. Most fun comes from John Candy who plays his overconfident , big mouthed and immature brother."Splash" is a nice little fairytale. A pleasant way to spend your time. It's a romantic comedy , yet it never gets too sappy. I did laugh a couple of times and I had a good time despite I'm not a fan of the genre. Ron Howard and team did a nice job. I give it 6/10.
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