The Big Kahuna Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Three guys try to sell oil, but instead, they accidentally sell each other on the meaning of life, proving that sometimes, the best deals are the friends we make along the way, especially when shrimp are involved.

🍿 The Big Kahuna: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Convention Arrival and Expectations

Larry Mann and Phil Cooper, veteran industrial lubricant salesmen, arrive at a convention in Wichita, Kansas, accompanied by Bob Walker, a young and devout member of the research department. Their primary goal is to secure a deal with Dick Fuller, a potential client known as ‘The Big Kahuna,’ whose business could significantly benefit their company. The setting is their hospitality suite, where they plan to host delegates and make their pitch.

Clash of Ideologies

As they await Fuller’s arrival, tensions rise between the cynical Larry and the religiously devoted Bob. Their differing worldviews create friction as they debate the meaning of success, the value of their work, and the role of faith in their lives. Phil, recently divorced and seemingly jaded, tries to mediate between the two, offering a more pragmatic perspective based on his years of experience.

Bob’s Unexpected Encounter

During the convention, Bob inadvertently meets Dick Fuller and engages in a conversation about faith and personal values rather than sales. Unaware of Fuller’s identity, Bob shares his religious beliefs, which deeply contrast with the typical sales tactics of Larry and Phil. This encounter leads to unexpected consequences and forces the three men to re-evaluate their priorities and the meaning of success.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Larry Mann (Kevin Spacey): A sardonic and cynical veteran salesman who prioritizes closing the deal above all else, masking his own insecurities with a sharp wit.
• Phil Cooper (Danny DeVito): A pragmatic and world-weary salesman who is questioning his life choices and searching for meaning beyond his career.
• Bob Walker (Peter Facinelli): A naive and idealistic young research department employee whose strong religious beliefs clash with the cynical sales tactics of his older colleagues.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Larry Mann: “There are people in this world, Bob, who look very official while they are doing what they are doing. And do you know why? Because they don’t know what they are doing.” – Larry explains to Bob the importance of confidence over actual knowledge, highlighting his cynical view of authority.
• Larry Mann: “If you know what you are doing, then you don’t have to look like you know what you are doing, because it comes naturally.” – Larry explains to Bob the importance of confidence over actual knowledge, highlighting his cynical view of authority.
• Phil Cooper: “I used to think that people were mostly good, that most people were okay. But now I see that people are mostly scared.” – Phil expresses his disillusionment with humanity, revealing his more profound and contemplative side.
• Phil Cooper: “The meaning of life is that you’re born and you die. And somewhere in the middle, you try to do something halfway decent.” – Phil reflects on the simple and often underwhelming nature of existence.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $7,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $3,165,544
• Worldwide Gross: $3,728,888

💥 The Big Kahuna Reviews

Personal Review

Wow, this movie really hit me hard! I went in expecting a quirky comedy, but ‘The Big Kahuna’ is so much more. The conversation between Larry, Phil, and Bob felt incredibly real, like I was eavesdropping on a late-night philosophical debate. Danny DeVito’s performance, especially, blew me away – the scene where he describes his dream? Chills! It made me question my own values and what truly matters in life. Definitely a movie I’ll be thinking about for a long time.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of character-driven dramas”
  • “Viewers interested in philosophical discussions”
  • “Those who appreciate strong acting performances”
  • “People who enjoy films with limited settings”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Strong language”
  • “Mature themes”
  • “Discussions of religion and existentialism”

Professional Reviews

• RogerEbert.com: “A smart and surprisingly moving film that elevates beyond its single hotel-room setting through sharp dialogue and compelling performances, particularly from Spacey and DeVito. The movie tackles existential themes with wit and grace.
• Variety: “Though dialogue-heavy, ‘The Big Kahuna’ captivates with its exploration of faith, cynicism, and the pursuit of success. Kevin Spacey delivers a nuanced performance as the manipulative Larry Mann, while Danny DeVito provides a grounded counterpoint as Phil Cooper.

Audience Reactions

Many viewers praised the film’s thought-provoking dialogue and its ability to spark introspection.: The exceptional acting and the film’s exploration of life’s big questions resonated with audiences.

Fans appreciated the movie’s ability to deliver a powerful message within a simple, contained setting.: The film’s focus on character development and meaningful conversations made it a standout experience.

Overall Consensus: A thought-provoking and well-acted film that explores themes of faith, cynicism, and the search for meaning in a modern world.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The movie is based on Roger Rueff’s play ‘Hospitality Suite’.”
• “The entire film was shot in just 16 days.”
• “Director John Swanbeck and writer Roger Rueff have never made another film.”
• “Danny DeVito joined the production at the last minute.”
• “The film was shot in Wichita, Kansas, USA.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Big Kahuna?

The Big Kahuna is available for streaming on various platforms including Prime Video, and Apple TV where you can rent or purchase the film. Check your local listings for availability on other streaming services or for digital purchase options.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Big Kahuna, you might like these similar films:

• Glengarry Glen Ross (1992): Explores the cutthroat world of sales and the moral compromises people make to succeed, with a strong ensemble cast and sharp dialogue.
• Death of a Salesman (1985): Features a traveling salesman who faces a mid-life crisis, questioning his career and life choices, with a focus on his strained relationships.
• Swimming with Sharks (1994): Explores ambition, workplace abuse, and the dark side of corporate culture through a darkly comedic lens.
• My Dinner with Andre (1981): Dialogue-heavy film centered around two men having a philosophical discussion during a dinner, much like the conversations in ‘The Big Kahuna’.

🛒 The Big Kahuna Related Products

• Glengarry Glen Ross [Blu-ray]: Explore another dark side of salesmanship with Al Pacino and Jack Lemmon in this classic film.
• The Essential Kevin Spacey Collection [DVD]: Enjoy iconic performances from one of the greatest modern actors.
• Funko Pop! Movies: Danny DeVito as Penguin: Add to your Funko Pop! collection the Danny DeVito as Penguin in Batman Returns movie.
• Motivational Quotes Desk Decor: Office accessories to give you inspiration on a daily basis.

🎧 Soundtrack

The Big Kahuna features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Hey Pachuco!” – performed by Royal Crown Revue
• “Charade Theme” – performed by Henry Mancini (Trumpet Orchestration)

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

The big Kahuna final monologue

Ever wonder what the point of ‘The Big Kahuna’ is? This final monologue really nails it. I think it’s a must-see to truly get the movie’s message!

The Big Kahuna: Danny DeVito’s monologue

Danny DeVito’s monologue is a gem! He breaks down what it truly means to be honest and human. Prepare for some profound truths!

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