Going Overboard

Shecky Moskowitz, a struggling comedian played by Adam Sandler, finds himself working on a cruise ship. Despite his dreams of making it big, he faces countless challenges while trying to entertain the passengers.

Shecky's big break arrives when it is believed that the regular comedian, Dickie Diamond, has fallen overboard. In reality, Dickie has locked himself in the men's room, but this misconception allows Shecky to take the stage and test his comedic skills.

Feeling anxious about his upcoming performance, Shecky is approached by King Neptune, portrayed by Billy Zane. Neptune encourages him by speaking about the transformative power of laughter and the joy it brings to people.

Shecky's first attempt at stand-up ends in utter failure as he is booed off the stage. The audience's harsh response, particularly from a construction worker named Dave, leaves him feeling defeated and uncertain about his future.

After a difficult night, Shecky receives unexpected guidance from comedy icon Milton Berle. Inspired by Berle's advice, he gathers his courage and takes another shot at standing up for the audience's laughter.

Shecky finally succeeds in making the audience laugh during his next performance. This moment of triumph marks a significant turn in his journey as a comedian, restoring his confidence.

While Shecky begins to regain his footing, two terrorists board the ship with the mission to kill Miss Australia. Their target is motivated by her insulting comments about General Noriega, raising the stakes on the cruise.

In a moment of quick thinking, Shecky recalls King Neptune's words about laughter. He promises the assassins that he will cast them in a film, managing to charm his way into saving Miss Australia from their plot.

Meanwhile, Dickie Diamond, having been freed from the men's room, returns to the stage. However, his earlier blasphemous remarks cause him to lose the audience's favor, highlighting the fickle nature of comedy.

With the danger seemingly averted, Shecky and the comedian troupe find themselves in a celebratory mood. They embrace the joy of laughter and camaraderie as the dramatic atmosphere fades away.

Just when things seem to be going well, General Noriega sets off a bomb on the ship. This shocking twist adds an unexpected layer of chaos to the story, serving as a reminder of the lurking danger amidst the comedy.

As the film concludes, the passengers and comedians come together for a joyful dance. This lighthearted finale contrasts sharply with the earlier peril, leaving the audience with a sense of hope and laughter.