Fun with Dick and Jane

Dick Harper is unexpectedly fired from his aerospace engineering position in Los Angeles by his boss, Charlie Blanchard, after a period of financial reversals. The sudden loss of income hits just as the couple faces looming tax debts and mounting bills. The hit to his career marks the first major setback that drives the subsequent decisions.

With more than $70,000 in income tax debt and a sudden unemployment, Dick and Jane struggle to find new work. Their attempts to secure employment all fail, leaving them increasingly desperate. The couple's financial security rapidly deteriorates as bills mount.

Jane lands a fashion modeling appearance at a restaurant that turns into a fiasco. The embarrassing showcase fails to provide any meaningful income and strains the couple further. It underscores how their attempts to stabilize their finances are failing.

Dick registers for unemployment benefits and, out of desperation, looks into food stamps to make ends meet. The process underscores the depth of their financial crisis and lack of options. This step marks a transition from attempts to rebound to considering illegal means.

Jane's wealthy parents dismiss the couple's hardship and advise them to view it as a life lesson rather than offering support. Their lack of assistance leaves the couple feeling abandoned and further motivated to handle problems themselves.

Unable to solve their problems through legitimate means, Dick and Jane plan and execute a first crime: robbing the telephone company. They target the operation in a calculated way, aiming to avoid harming people while stealing money.

Over time, their guilty consciences and practical needs push them to attempt retirement from robbery. They weigh returning to legitimate life against the risk of jail and the consequences of their actions. The plan to retire reveals a push-pull between desperation and morality.

Dick and Jane see Charlie Blanchard testifying before a Congressional committee on television. The revelations expose that Charlie keeps a $200,000 slush fund in his office, heightening the stakes for the couple's choices.

Motivated by the money Charlie controls, Dick and Jane decide to rob him. The plan pits their desperation against their previous loyalties and the danger of being caught by the man they used to answer to.

During a gala at the old firm, the couple breaks into Charlie's office, cracks the safe, and steals $200,000. They manage to get out with the money, but their escape is thwarted by security and proximity to the exits.

The couple makes it to the main floor, but guards guard all the exits and alert Charlie. Dick admits to Charlie that they have stolen the money, and he reveals that Jane has already called the police about the theft.

Charlie tells the arriving police that no crime has been committed, effectively pulling the couple out of immediate danger. He helps escort them safely out of the building, avoiding an arrest or prosecution at that moment.

In the aftermath, a press release announces that Dick has been hired as president of the firm, while Charlie resigns. The outcome suggests a surprising reconciliation of interests and marks a dramatic turn in their fortunes.