What’s the Worst That Could Happen? Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A thief and a rich guy get into a ridiculous fight over a ring, only to discover they both need to grow up; shenanigans ensue.

🍿 What’s the Worst That Could Happen?: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction: Thief Meets Billionaire

Kevin Caffrey, a skilled thief, meets Amber at an auction and begins a relationship with her. She gifts him a ring that was her father’s lucky charm. Meanwhile, Max Fairbanks, a wealthy but unscrupulous businessman, is facing bankruptcy. Kevin and his partner, Berger, decide to rob Max’s beachfront mansion, unaware of the complications that await.

The Botched Robbery and Stolen Ring

During the robbery, Max catches Kevin in the act. In a twist of fate, Max claims Kevin’s ring as his own stolen property, leading to Kevin’s arrest. Enraged by this injustice, Kevin vows to retrieve his ring, setting off a chain of events involving heists, cons, and escalating conflict between the thief and the billionaire.

Escalating Conflict and Schemes

Kevin and Max engage in a series of tit-for-tat schemes. Kevin robs Max multiple times, while Max tries to use his influence and security to thwart Kevin. The conflict escalates to Washington D.C., where Kevin sabotages Max’s Senate hearing. These events strain Kevin’s relationship with Amber, who grows weary of his obsession with the ring.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Kevin Caffery (Martin Lawrence): A skilled thief who becomes obsessed with retrieving his lucky ring after it is stolen by a wealthy businessman.
• Max Fairbanks (Danny DeVito): A snarky, self-absorbed billionaire who steals Kevin’s ring and becomes his nemesis.
• Amber Belhaven (Carmen Ejogo): Kevin’s girlfriend who gives him the ring and later becomes involved in the conflict between Kevin and Max.
• Berger (John Leguizamo): Kevin’s somewhat dim-witted partner in crime who aids him in his heists.
• Uncle Jack (Bernie Mac): Kevin’s uncle, who owns a bar and acts as a fence and provides support for Kevin’s schemes.
• Lutetia Fairbanks (Nora Dunn): Max’s long-suffering wife who eventually plots against him.
• Detective Alex Tardio (William Fichtner): A flamboyant detective investigating the robberies involving Kevin and Max.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Kevin: “When I blink a lot, I’m lying.” – Kevin reveals his tell to Amber early in their relationship to be honest, even when deceiving her.
• Max: “It’s not the money, it’s the principle.” – Max says this to justify his relentless pursuit of Kevin and the ring, showcasing his stubbornness.
• Detective Alex Tardio: “Come on boys, pull daddy like a chariot.” – Detective Tardio says this to the other police officers at the scene, highlighting his flamboyant personality.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $60,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $32,269,834
• Worldwide Gross: $38,464,131

💥 What’s the Worst That Could Happen? Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, so I went into this movie expecting a lighthearted, silly comedy, and it mostly delivered on that front. Martin Lawrence and Danny DeVito definitely have some funny moments together, especially the Senate hearing scene. The plot is kinda ridiculous, but honestly, I was just looking for something to make me laugh, and it did the trick for a mindless watch. I found myself chuckling at some of the ridiculous situations. I wouldn’t call it a great movie, but it’s definitely worth a watch if you need a goofy pick-me-up.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Martin Lawrence”
  • “Those who enjoy slapstick comedy”
  • “Viewers looking for lighthearted entertainment”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild language”
  • “Suggestive humor”
  • “Brief violence”

Professional Reviews

• Rotten Tomatoes: “”What’s the Worst That Could Happen?” is a comedy that doesn’t deliver enough laughs, despite the presence of talented comedians like Martin Lawrence and Danny DeVito. The plot is convoluted, and the humor often misses the mark, leaving audiences underwhelmed.
• AllMovie: “While the cast is capable, the script fails to provide them with consistently funny material. The premise of a thief battling a billionaire over a ring feels stretched thin, and the film relies too heavily on slapstick and predictable gags, resulting in a forgettable comedy experience.

Audience Reactions

The over-the-top antics of Martin Lawrence and Danny DeVito together were hilarious to watch.: Many viewers enjoyed the silly, escapist humor and the chemistry between the two lead actors.

William Fichtner’s portrayal of the flamboyantly gay detective was scene-stealing.: The supporting cast, especially William Fichtner, added memorable and quirky comedic moments.

Overall Consensus: A lighthearted but forgettable comedy that relies on the comedic talents of its stars to deliver moments of amusement, though the convoluted plot and inconsistent humor may leave some viewers wanting more.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film is based on the novel of the same name by Donald E. Westlake, known for his crime comedies.”
• “Originally, the project was intended for Heath Ledger, suggesting a different tone and casting direction was initially considered.”

🖥️ How to Watch What’s the Worst That Could Happen??

Currently, “What’s the Worst That Could Happen?” is available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms. You can find it on Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for cable VOD options as well. Purchasing the film will grant you permanent access in your digital library, while renting provides a limited viewing window, usually 48 hours. Keep an eye on streaming services like Hulu or Netflix, as availability can change over time.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed What’s the Worst That Could Happen?, you might like these similar films:

• Ruthless People (1986): Shares a dark comedy tone with characters engaging in morally questionable schemes for personal gain.
• Blue Streak (1999): Another Martin Lawrence-led comedy involving crime, mistaken identity, and a fast-paced plot.
• Tin Men (1987): Focuses on a comedic rivalry between two salesmen, similar to the dynamic between Kevin and Max.

🛒 What’s the Worst That Could Happen? Related Products

• Donald E. Westlake’s ‘What’s the Worst That Could Happen?’ – Novel: Experience the original story that inspired the movie! Westlake’s hilarious crime caper is a must-read for fans of comedic crime novels.
• Martin Lawrence Collection (DVD Box Set): Relive more Martin Lawrence comedies! Box sets or individual titles could be promoted.
• Danny DeVito Comedy Classics (DVD Box Set): Watch the works that made DeVito a household name! Titles like ‘Twins’, ‘Ruthless People’, or his dramatic filmography.

🎧 Soundtrack

What’s the Worst That Could Happen? features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Wooden Horse” – performed by Craig Mack
• “High Hopes (Sampled)” – performed by Frank Sinatra

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Dr Pepper “Butt Naked Boy” Advert. What’s the Worst that Could Happen? Ad Campaign

OMG, did you know Jesse Eisenberg was in a Dr Pepper commercial with the same slogan as the movie?! It’s hilarious and super 80s, you HAVE to see this!

“What’s the Worst That Can Happen?” SUPERCUT by AFX

Ever wonder where the title of the movie comes from? This video shows all the other times that iconic phrase has been used in pop culture! I didn’t realize it was SO common.

Dr. Pepper – Over-Friendly Father (2001, UK)

Here is yet another old commercial, you’ll probably laugh!

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