Modern Problems Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A grumpy air traffic controller gets superpowers from radioactive goo and decides the best use of his newfound abilities is to be petty and win back his ex-girlfriend by any means necessary.

🍿 Modern Problems: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction: Max’s Unhappy Life

Max Fiedler (Chevy Chase) is a stressed-out air traffic controller dealing with a recent breakup. His possessiveness drove away his girlfriend, Darcy. He’s generally unhappy and feels stuck in his routine.

Toxic Waste Encounter and Telekinetic Powers

One night, Max accidentally gets splashed with nuclear waste while driving. He soon discovers he has developed telekinetic abilities. At first he doesn’t realize the extent of his new powers, but slowly begins to experiment and find out what he can do.

Revenge and Attempts to Win Back Darcy

Max initially uses his powers for petty revenge on those who annoy him. He also tries to win back Darcy by impressing her with his newfound abilities, though his attempts are often clumsy and backfire.

Beach House Chaos

Max, Darcy, his ex-wife Lorraine, and their friend Brian go to a beach house for the weekend. An obnoxious self-help author, Mark Winslow, joins them. Tensions rise, and Max’s powers spiral out of control, leading to chaotic and comedic situations.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Max Fielder (Chevy Chase): A harried air traffic controller who gains telekinetic powers after exposure to nuclear waste and uses them for revenge and to win back his girlfriend.
• Darcy (Patti D’Arbanville): Max’s ex-girlfriend, whose departure prompts Max’s attempts to win her back using his newfound powers.
• Mark Winslow (Dabney Coleman): An egotistical self-help author and rival for Darcy’s affections, who becomes a target of Max’s telekinetic abilities.
• Lorraine (Mary Kay Place): Max’s ex-wife who maintains a friendly relationship with him and becomes involved in the chaotic beach house events.
• Dorita (Nell Carter): Brian’s Haitian housekeeper who practices voodoo and attempts to counteract Max’s powers.
• Brian Stills (Brian Doyle-Murray): Max’s old friend and a Vietnam veteran, confined to a wheelchair, who invites everyone to his beach house.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Brian Stills: “Well, I’ll be a striped-ass ape! Max Fiedler!” – Brian’s surprised greeting to Max after not seeing him since high school.
• Max Fiedler: “I like it!” – Max says this after realizing and experimenting with his telekinetic abilities, demonstrating his excitement.
• Mark Winslow: “I’m a damn good looking man” – Mark Winslow’s egoistical and self-assertive line that represents his overconfident character.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $8,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $26,154,211
• Worldwide Gross: $26,154,211

💥 Modern Problems Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, so ‘Modern Problems’ is one of those movies you watch and think, ‘What was Chevy Chase thinking?’ The special effects are so bad they’re almost charming, and the plot is totally bonkers. But, I have to admit, there are a few scenes that still make me laugh, like the ballet scene or when he gives that guy a nosebleed at the restaurant. I definitely wouldn’t call it a cinematic masterpiece, but it’s a fun, goofy watch if you’re in the mood for something totally silly. Just don’t expect it to make any sense.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Chevy Chase”
  • “People who enjoy 80s comedies”
  • “Viewers looking for silly, low-brow humor”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Crude humor”
  • “Suggestive content”
  • “Some scenes may be considered offensive”

Professional Reviews

• IMDB: “While ‘Modern Problems’ has some amusing moments, it’s ultimately a hit-or-miss comedy. Chase’s performance is uneven, and the special effects are dated. However, the supporting cast, including Dabney Coleman and Nell Carter, provide some genuine laughs, making it a passable, but not exceptional, 80s comedy.
• Rotten Tomatoes: “Modern Problems is a film that struggles to find its comedic footing. Chevy Chase’s comedic timing feels off, and the plot lacks a clear direction. What could have been a laugh-out-loud romp ends up being a series of missed opportunities, failing to fully capitalize on its premise.

Audience Reactions

Some viewers found the film hilarious and enjoyable, particularly the physical comedy and Dabney Coleman’s performance.: Many agree that the movie is a product of its time, with dated humor and special effects that might not appeal to modern audiences, although some still find it nostalgic and funny.

Overall Consensus: Opinions on ‘Modern Problems’ are mixed, with some finding it a hilarious and nostalgic comedy, while others criticize it for its weak plot, dated humor, and poor special effects. It’s generally considered a flawed but occasionally amusing Chevy Chase vehicle.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Chevy Chase was nearly electrocuted during a stunt where he wore ‘landing lights’ and dreamt he was an airplane, causing him to lose consciousness.”
• “Director Ken Shapiro and Chevy Chase previously collaborated on ‘The Groove Tube’ (1974).”
• “Alternate takes (without audio) of the main characters are shown during the end credits.”

🖥️ How to Watch Modern Problems?

Modern Problems is available for rent or purchase on various platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. Check your local listings for cable and satellite on-demand options. You can also search for physical copies on Amazon.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Modern Problems, you might like these similar films:

• Fletch (1985): Starring Chevy Chase in a hilarious and iconic role that fans of his comedic style would appreciate.
• Weird Science (1985): Features a blend of sci-fi and comedy with ordinary people gaining extraordinary abilities.
• Scanners (1981): Released the same year, this cult classic explores telekinetic powers but in a darker, more suspenseful context.
• Caddyshack (1980): Showcases Chevy Chase’s comedic talent in a wildly absurd and memorable setting.

🛒 Modern Problems Related Products

• Chevy Chase Collection [DVD]: A collection featuring some of Chevy Chase’s most iconic comedies, including ‘National Lampoon’s Vacation’, ‘Fletch’, and more. Perfect for fans of his brand of humor and physical comedy.
• Telekinesis Mind Power Training DVD: Learn how to unlock your hidden potential with this comprehensive guide to telekinesis. Includes step-by-step instructions, practice exercises, and real-life demonstrations. Disclaimer: Results may vary.
• Radioactive Waste Barrel Prop Replica: A detailed replica of a radioactive waste barrel, as seen in the movie. This prop is perfect for display, cosplay, or adding a touch of dark humor to your collection.
• Modern Problems T-Shirt: This hilarious T-Shirt makes it the perfect way to show your love for the movie Modern Problems. Available in various sizes and colors.

🎧 Soundtrack

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

• “Gonna Get It Next Time” – performed by The Tubes
• “Music by Dominic Frontiere” – performed by Dominic Frontiere

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Chevy Chase Modern Problems I like it!

Remember that hilarious scene from ‘Modern Problems’ with Chevy Chase? This clip captures one of the best moments – you gotta see it again!

✨ Rate