The Big Kahuna

Larry Mann (Kevin Spacey) and Phil Cooper (Danny DeVito), both seasoned marketing representatives from an industrial lubricants firm, find themselves attending a trade convention in Wichita, Kansas. They are soon joined by a young man from the research department, Bob Walker (Peter Facinelli). With a longstanding friendship, Larry and Phil share easy banter, but their lives are marked by challenges: Larry faces dire financial troubles, which he hints at, while Phil is newly sober after completing a recovery program for alcoholism. In contrast, Bob is an innocent young Baptist with no notable regrets, which adds a unique dynamic to their discussions.

Their main objective is to score a meeting with the elusive Dick Fuller, the CEO they refer to as “the Big Kahuna.” As they wait in the comfort of their hospitality suite, the trio engages in deep conversations about character and personal development. They even appoint Bob as the bartender for the evening, despite his lack of experience with mixing drinks. Larry quips that their diverse paths—his smoking cessation, Phil’s sobriety, and Bob’s devout beliefs—have made them “practically Jesus.”

As Bob tries his hand at bartending, he unexpectedly strikes up a conversation with the Big Kahuna and is invited to a private party at a nearby hotel. With excitement, Larry and Phil coach Bob on delivering their pitch about lubricants, providing him with essential talking points and their business cards. However, when Bob returns from his meeting, he reveals that instead of promoting their product, he discussed his religious views, leaving Larry in absolute shock and dismay.

In the wake of this exchange, Phil takes the time to clarify to Bob the essence of genuine human connection—he emphasizes that proselytizing can be likened to a sales pitch and explains that the foundation of Larry and Phil’s friendship is built on trust and understanding. He advises that until Bob recognizes and embraces his own shortcomings and regrets, he will not progress in character or maturity.

The following morning, as Phil begins packing, Larry notices Bob chatting once more with the Big Kahuna in the lobby. They share a subtle, knowing smile, hinting that Bob’s agenda remains focused on preaching instead of selling lubricants. The film’s closing credits roll to the soothing tune of “Everybody’s Free (to Wear Sunscreen),” an adaptation of Mary Schmich’s iconic essay, leaving viewers with thought-provoking themes about life, relationships, and personal growth.

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 17:59