Nothing in Common

Nothing in Common

Year: 1986

Runtime: 118 min

Language: English

Director: Garry Marshall

DramaComedyRomance

A high-powered ad exec's life is turned upside down when his parents' 36-year union suddenly unravels, forcing him to navigate the complexities of their fragile relationships and conflicting demands. As he struggles to balance family obligations with professional ambitions, David must confront the true meaning of success and the sacrifices that come with it.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Nothing in Common yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Nothing in Common (1986)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Nothing in Common (1986). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The narrative unfolds in a contemporary setting, highlighting the complexities of both family and professional life in the late 20th century. It captures the essence of modern adult challenges, balancing career ambitions with personal responsibilities.

Location

Chicago

Chicago serves as the bustling backdrop for David's life, known for its vibrant economy and cultural scene. The city reflects both the professional pressures David faces in his ad agency and the personal challenges he encounters at home. Its dynamic environment contrasts sharply with the intimate struggles of family life.

🏙️ City 🏨 Ad Agency

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:46

Main Characters – Nothing in Common (1986)
Meet the key characters of Nothing in Common (1986), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

David Basner (Tom Hanks)

David is a young ad executive caught between the glamour of his career and the weight of family responsibilities. Characterized by superficiality and immaturity, David's journey reveals deeper vulnerabilities as he confronts the complexities of adulthood. His evolving relationship with his parents and his ex-girlfriend signals a path toward growth.

👔 Young Adult 🏆 Career-oriented

Max Basner

Max is David's aging father, whose struggles with health and loyalty reveal the fragility of family bonds. He embodies the challenges of an older generation facing obsolescence and emotional turmoil. Max's relationship with David serves as a poignant reminder of the unspoken tensions that often exist in families.

👴 Aging 🏥 Health Challenges

Donna (Eva Marie Saint)

Donna is David's empathetic ex-girlfriend, providing him with a perspective on maturity and responsibility. She represents the voice of reason in David's chaotic life, pushing him to reflect on his choices. Her re-emergence in David's life rekindles old feelings and sparks his journey of self-discovery.

💖 Love Interest 📖 Wise Mentor

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:46

Major Themes – Nothing in Common (1986)
Explore the central themes of Nothing in Common (1986), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🧳 Family Duty

The theme of family duty resonates deeply as David grapples with the responsibilities thrust upon him by his aging parents. Their need for support forces him to confront the realities of adulthood and question his previous carefree lifestyle. It illustrates the challenges of caregiving and emotional resilience within a familial context.

💔 Personal Growth

David's journey toward maturity is central to the plot, exploring the dichotomy between his playboy persona and the demands of adulthood. His relationships, particularly with his parents and ex-girlfriend, serve as catalysts for introspection and growth. The evolution of his character reflects the struggle many face in reconciling their youthful aspirations with life's harsh realities.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:46

Similar Movies to Nothing in Common
Discover movies like Nothing in Common that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.