Chances Are

Chances Are

Year: 1989

Runtime: 108 min

Language: English

Director: Emile Ardolino

FantasyComedyRomance

When Louie Jeffries meets an untimely demise, his spirit returns as Alex Finch, 20 years later, to reunite with his estranged family. As fate intertwines their lives, Alex is drawn to his own daughter, Miranda, forcing him to confront the secrets of his past life and the love he left behind, amidst a tangled web of reincarnation and self-discovery.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Chances Are (1989)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Chances Are (1989). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1960s

The film is set primarily in the early 1960s, a time marked by significant social and political changes in the United States. This era was characterized by cultural revolution, advancements in civil rights, and a growing youth movement. The characters navigate personal dilemmas against the backdrop of this dynamic period.

Location

Washington, D.C., Ohio

Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States, known for its monumental landmarks, vibrant cultural scene, and political significance. It is also where much of the story unfolds, highlighting both personal and legal struggles of the characters. Ohio, on the other hand, serves as a crucial backdrop, representing a new beginning for Louie's soul, as it becomes intertwined with his past.

🏙️ City 🌳 Nature

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

Main Characters – Chances Are (1989)
Meet the key characters of Chances Are (1989), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Louie / Alex (Robert Downey Jr.)

Louie, originally a man with an impactful life, is reincarnated as Alex. He grapples with fragmented memories of his past life and his blossoming feelings for Corinne. Throughout the film, he evolves from confusion to a strong sense of purpose in winning over Corinne once more, showcasing resilience and the power of love.

👤 Character 🔄 Reincarnation ❤️ Love

Corinne (Cybill Shepherd)

Corinne is a deeply nostalgic character who is unable to fully let go of Louie. Her journey reflects the struggle between moving on and clinging to memories, portraying both strength and vulnerability. As the story unfolds, she is forced to confront her feelings for the reincarnated Louie, complicating her emotional landscape.

💔 Heartbreak 🔄 Regret 🌳 Nature

Philip (Ryan O'Neal)

Philip is portrayed as the best friend and confidant who harbors secret feelings for Corinne. His role becomes increasingly pivotal as he navigates his friendship with Louie/Alex while grappling with his feelings for Corinne. He represents loyalty and the challenges of unrequited love, adding tension to the love triangle.

🤝 Friendship 💔 Unrequited Love 👔 Professionalism

Miranda (Mary Stuart Masterson)

Miranda is a law student with a kind heart who becomes integral to Alex’s discovery of his past. Her connection to Corinne adds depth to her character as she unwittingly becomes a link between Louie’s past and present. Miranda's own struggles with responsibilities make her relatable and sympathetic.

📚 Education 💞 Love 🤗 Kindness

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

Major Themes – Chances Are (1989)
Explore the central themes of Chances Are (1989), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔄 Reincarnation

The theme of reincarnation plays a central role in the narrative, exploring the idea of life after death and the continuity of love across lifetimes. Louie's soul returns to the world in a new body, leading to a poignant inquiry about identity and connection. This theme prompts questions about fate, destiny, and the enduring nature of love.

💔 Love and Loss

Love and loss are profoundly depicted through Corinne's character, who struggles to move on from Louie's absence. Her routines signify a longing for her past, while the new relationship with Alex introduces the tension between past affection and present reality. This theme illustrates the complexities of moving forward emotionally while still holding onto bygone love.

⚖️ Justice

Justice is a recurring theme, highlighted through Louie's effort to expose corruption within the legal system. The story delves into moral dilemmas and the consequences of actions dictated by personal ethics versus legal obligations. Characters grapple with the meaning of justice in personal and professional spheres.

Last Updated: January 14, 2025 at 22:08

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