Outrageous Fortune

Outrageous Fortune

Year: 1987

Runtime: 99 min

Language: English

Director: Arthur Hiller

Comedy

In this sidesplitting comedy, two mismatched aspiring actresses, Sandy Borzinsky (Bette Midler) and Lauren Ames (Shelley Long), clash in their quest for stardom. When a sudden twist reunites them with the same boyfriend, Michael Sanders (Peter Coyote), they're left reeling. But as they embark on a wacky adventure to find him, they uncover a web of espionage and deceit that challenges everything they thought they knew about love, identity, and the high-stakes world of Hollywood.

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Outrageous Fortune (1987) – Full Plot Summary & Ending Explained
Read the complete plot breakdown of Outrageous Fortune (1987), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.

As the refined yet troubled actress Lauren Ames (Shelley Long) embarks on a transformative journey guided by the esteemed theatre professor Stanislav Korzenowski (Robert Prosky), her path takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with the boisterous and outspoken Sandy Brozinsky (Bette Midler). The initial interaction between these two actresses is marked by underlying tensions, as their mutual disdain simmers just beneath the surface. Unbeknownst to them, they find themselves entangled in a complex web of relationships with Michael Santers (Peter Coyote), a charismatic individual whose life takes a devastating twist following an explosive incident at a local store that leaves much speculation about his fate.

In the wake of this tragic turn, both Lauren and Sandy grapple with the shock of their shared love interest’s apparent demise. However, their grief quickly transforms into a burning curiosity as they uncover a staggering revelation: Michael may have orchestrated his own death. This discovery compels the two actresses to form a tenuous alliance, united by a fierce determination to unravel the mystery surrounding Michael’s sudden disappearance. Their quest catapults them on a perilous journey across the country, fraught with danger as they encounter relentless CIA agents, cunning Russian assassins, and a series of cryptic clues.

As their investigation deepens, Lauren and Sandy find themselves pursued by merciless operatives, each with their ominous agendas aimed at recapturing Michael. The tension escalates dramatically when they pinpoint his location, only to learn that he operates as a double agent entangled in the machinations of both the CIA and the KGB. With the potential possession of a lethal toxin capable of catastrophic destruction looming large, both organizations become embroiled in chaos.

The thrilling chase intensifies when Lauren is taken hostage by Michael’s rogue associates, who demand a trade with the CIA for the toxin. Seizing a moment of opportunity when the deal deteriorates, Lauren deftly escapes with both the stolen cash and the potent toxin, triggering a frantic pursuit by Michael and his crew. As they are cornered amidst a breathtaking landscape of rugged mountaintops, Lauren relies on her former ballet training to elude capture. Ultimately, she executes a daring grand jeté, sending Michael tumbling to what seems to be his demise.

In the aftermath of their tumultuous escapades, Lauren and Sandy emerge with an unbreakable bond, strengthened through the challenges they have overcome together. Looking ahead, they commit to once again gracing the stage, this time as co-stars in a production of Hamlet, with Lauren stepping into the titular role and Sandy portraying Ophelia.

Last Updated: November 17, 2024 at 22:33

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