Mannequin Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A sculptor’s love life gets complicated when his favorite mannequin turns out to be an ancient Egyptian princess hiding from a bad marriage, leading to a department store rivalry and the cheesiest 80’s romance ever.

🍿 Mannequin: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction: Jonathan’s Artistic Struggles

Jonathan Switcher, a talented but struggling artist, finds himself unable to hold down a job due to his unique artistic vision. His creativity clashes with the demands of mass production, leading to a series of firings. He’s passionate about his art, particularly sculpture, but struggles to find an outlet that aligns with the expectations of his employers.

Emmy’s Arrival and the Department Store

Jonathan creates a mannequin that embodies his ideal woman. He’s soon fired from his job at the mannequin factory, but later discovers his creation in the window of Prince & Company, a struggling department store. He rescues the store owner, Mrs. Timkin, from a falling sign and is rewarded with a job at the store.

The Mannequin Comes to Life

When Jonathan is alone with the mannequin, it miraculously comes to life as Emmy, an ancient Egyptian princess who wished to escape an arranged marriage and travel to the future. Emmy and Jonathan develop a close bond, and she becomes his muse, inspiring him to create stunning window displays that revitalize the department store.

Rivalries and Corporate Sabotage

Jonathan’s success attracts the attention of Illustra, a rival department store, and their scheming manager, Richards. Richards, secretly working for Illustra’s owner, attempts to sabotage Prince & Company and steal Jonathan’s ideas. Jonathan’s ex-girlfriend, Roxie, also gets involved, adding to the complications.

Kidnapping and Rescue

In a desperate attempt to ruin Prince & Company, Richards and Felix, the store’s security guard, kidnap all the mannequins including Emmy. During the rescue attempt, Emmy is placed on a conveyor belt leading to a trash compactor. Jonathan risks everything to save her.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Jonathan Switcher (Andrew McCarthy): A struggling artist who falls in love with a mannequin that comes to life only for him, revitalizing a failing department store with his window displays.
• Emmy (Kim Cattrall): An ancient Egyptian princess who becomes a mannequin and comes to life to inspire and love Jonathan, helping him succeed.
• Richards (James Spader): The smarmy and conniving manager of Prince & Company, secretly working to sabotage the store for a rival company.
• Hollywood Montrose (Meshach Taylor): The flamboyant and supportive window dresser at Prince & Company who befriends Jonathan and helps him with his displays.
• Claire Timkin (Estelle Getty): The kind-hearted owner of Prince & Company who gives Jonathan a chance and appreciates his artistic talents.
• Felix (G.W. Bailey): The bumbling and suspicious night security guard at Prince & Company who tries to catch Jonathan doing something wrong.
• Roxie (Carole Davis): Jonathan’s ambitious ex-girlfriend who works for a rival department store and becomes jealous of his success.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Hollywood: “It’s obvious to this country girl that you’re an A-number one creative freak.” – Hollywood says this to Jonathan, acknowledging his artistic talent and unique vision.
• Emmy: “I’ve been waiting 3,000 years for a kiss.” – Emmy reveals her long wait to find true love when Jonathan first kisses her.
• Richards: “I am very, very close to losing control here.” – Richards expresses his frustration as Jonathan thwarts his plans to sabotage Prince and Company.
• Hollywood: “I’m seeing, but I’m still not believing.” – Hollywood’s reaction to finally seeing Emmy come to life, expressing his disbelief.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $6,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $42,721,196
• Worldwide Gross: $42,721,196

💥 Mannequin Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely adore ‘Mannequin’! It’s one of those movies that just makes me feel good, no matter how many times I watch it. The scene where Jonathan and Emmy are dancing through the store while ‘Do You Dream About Me?’ plays is iconic. It’s pure 80’s cheese, but it’s delightful. I always find myself smiling throughout the entire movie. The supporting cast is also so hilarious, like G.W. Bailey and his dog!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of 1980s romantic comedies”
  • “Viewers looking for a lighthearted and silly film”
  • “Those who enjoy fantasy elements in their romantic comedies”
  • “Fans of Andrew McCarthy and Kim Cattrall”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Some mild suggestive humor”
  • “Brief moments of peril”
  • “Stereotypical portrayal of a gay character (though arguably positive in its portrayal of friendship)”
  • “Some outdated attitudes regarding workplace behavior”

Professional Reviews

• Indiewire: “While ‘Mannequin’ may not be a masterpiece, it’s a delightfully absurd high-concept comedy that perfectly captures the essence of the 80s. It’s a fun, silly, romantic, and totally enjoyable ride!
• Rollingstone.com: “A charming if improbable fantasy-comedy elevated by solid performances, especially from McCarthy and Taylor, with James Spader as the smarmy antagonist.

Audience Reactions

Kim Cattrall’s performance is bubbly and witty, making Emmy a fun and charismatic character to root for.: Most viewers agree that the movie is silly, fun, and doesn’t take itself too seriously, making it an enjoyable watch for those looking for light-hearted entertainment.

The soundtrack perfectly captures the 80s vibe, with ‘Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now’ being an unforgettable theme song.: It’s a great movie that has an uplifting happy ever after ending with romance.

Overall Consensus: ‘Mannequin’ is a quintessential 80s rom-com that, while undeniably cheesy, provides a lighthearted and entertaining experience for those who appreciate its unique blend of fantasy and humor.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Original Song)- 1987

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Many of the window displays created for the movie were designed by real window dressers from Philadelphia department stores.”
• “The original title for the film was ‘One Touch of Emmy’.”
• “The film was shot primarily at Wanamaker’s Department Store in Philadelphia, which is now a Macy’s.”

🖥️ How to Watch Mannequin?

Mannequin (1987) is available to rent or purchase on various platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play. Check your local listings for cable VOD options. Availability may vary by region. Physical copies (DVD, Blu-ray) are also available for purchase online and in stores.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Mannequin, you might like these similar films:

• Splash (1984): Features a man falling in love with a being who is not what she seems (a mermaid), similar to the fantasy element of Mannequin.
• Weird Science (1985): Two teenagers create the perfect woman using technology, exploring themes of fantasy and wish fulfillment like Mannequin.
• Roxanne (1987): Like Mannequin, is a lighthearted romantic comedy from the 80s with a whimsical plot and comedic elements.
• Lars and the Real Girl (2007): A man develops a relationship with a doll, exploring themes of loneliness and acceptance, though with a more dramatic approach than Mannequin.

🛒 Mannequin Related Products

• Mannequin (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack): While an official soundtrack was never released, this digital compilation features all the iconic songs from the movie, including ‘Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now’ and other 80s hits. Relive the magic of the movie’s soundscape!
• Funko Pop! Movies: Mannequin – Emmy: This limited-edition Funko Pop! figure captures Kim Cattrall’s Emmy in her mannequin form, a must-have for collectors and fans of the film. It’s a perfect way to display your love for this 80s classic.
• Mannequin Movie Poster: A high-quality reproduction of the original ‘Mannequin’ movie poster. A perfect addition to any 80’s movie fan’s collection. Celebrate the movie that had everyone fall in love with mannequins. Available on Amazon
• Custom Mannequin T-Shirt: Show off your love for the iconic 80s movie with this unique apparel. Made from comfortable, high-quality fabric, this shirt lets you express your fandom in style. Available on Amazon.

🎧 Soundtrack

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

• “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” – performed by Starship
• “Do You Dream About Me?” – performed by Alisha

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Mannequin (1987) – Dancing in The Store Scene (4/12) | Movieclips

Remember that iconic scene where Andrew McCarthy and Kim Cattrall tear up the department store with their dance moves? This clip will take you right back – honestly, it’s pure 80s gold and always makes me smile!

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