“About Last Night…” (1986)

Drama

Running Time: 113 minutes

Written by: Tim Kazurinsky and Denise DeClue

Directed by: Edward Zwick

Featuring: Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, James Belushi and Elizabeth Perkins

Debbie: “Bullshit. You don’t know what love is. You’ve gotten everything you have always wanted and now you’re feeling sorry for yourself because there’s something you want and you can’t have it. But you had it! I gave you love. But you asked me to leave and I left.”

The 1986 movie “About Last Night…” is a romantic comedy-drama directed by Edward Zwick and starring Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, James Belushi, and Elizabeth Perkins. The film is based on the 1974 play “Sexual Perversity in Chicago” by David Mamet.

The story follows Danny and Debbie, two young adults who meet at a bar in Chicago and begin a passionate, but tumultuous relationship. The film explores the ups and downs of their romance, as well as the friendships and relationships of their respective best friends, Bernie and Joan.

“About Last Night…” received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the film’s humor, performances, and realistic portrayal of relationships. Rob Lowe and Demi Moore’s chemistry was particularly praised, and the film is often regarded as one of the best romantic comedies of the 1980s. The movie was also a commercial success, grossing over $38 million at the box office. Overall, “About Last Night…” is a classic romantic comedy-drama that continues to be enjoyed by audiences to this day.

The film’s themes of love, sex, and relationships, as well as its portrayal of the dating scene in the 1980s, have made it a cultural touchstone for many viewers. It also features a notable soundtrack that includes songs by artists such as John Waite and Sheena Easton.

In addition to its critical and commercial success, “About Last Night…” is also notable for its impact on the careers of its stars. The film helped to establish Rob Lowe and Demi Moore as major Hollywood actors, and it also marked a departure for James Belushi, who was previously known primarily for his work on TV’s “Saturday Night Live.”

The film also delves into the complexities of relationships, exploring issues such as communication, trust, and the challenges of commitment. It portrays the ups and downs of relationships in a realistic and relatable way, making it a beloved film for many who have experienced the joys and struggles of love.

Beyond its thematic content, the film’s direction by Edward Zwick is also noteworthy. Zwick is known for his ability to bring out strong performances from actors, and this film is no exception. Rob Lowe and Demi Moore deliver powerful and nuanced performances as the central couple, and James Belushi and Elizabeth Perkins also shine in their supporting roles.

In conclusion, “About Last Night…” is a classic romantic comedy-drama that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release. Its strong performances, direction, and themes have made it a beloved film that is often cited as one of the best romantic comedies of the 1980s. Whether you’re a fan of romantic films or just looking for a movie that explores the complexities of relationships, “About Last Night…” is a must-watch.

Another notable aspect of “About Last Night…” is its cultural impact. The film’s depiction of young adults navigating relationships in the 1980s has made it a touchstone for many viewers who came of age during that era. Its portrayal of dating, love, and sex has also influenced subsequent films and TV shows, making it a seminal work in the romantic comedy genre.

Additionally, the film’s soundtrack is also worth mentioning. It features several memorable songs, including John Waite’s “Missing You,” which was a hit single in 1984. The soundtrack also includes tracks by artists such as Sheena Easton, The Pointer Sisters, and Bob Seger, contributing to the film’s overall nostalgic feel.

“About Last Night…” is a classic romantic comedy-drama that has stood the test of time. Its realistic portrayal of relationships, strong performances, and impact on popular culture make it a must-watch for fans of the genre. If you haven’t seen it yet, it’s definitely worth adding to your watchlist. “About Last Night…” is a classic romantic comedy-drama that has stood the test of time. Its themes and humor continue to resonate with audiences, and its strong performances and direction have made it a beloved film for many.