On M List of Movie Reviews

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Mr. Destiny (1990)

Rate: 8
Viewed: 7/18

MrDestiny
7/18: Here's a good James Belushi movie: Mr. Destiny.

I've forgotten how underrated of an actor he is. Not many people give him enough credit for his decent yet low-key performances. The 1955 Porsche Beck 550 Spyder James Belushi's character was driving is the same car that James Dean died in on September 30, 1955.

It's nice to see Michael Caine in a small role. His classy presence plays a big part in the film that's similar to It's a Wonderful Life which was based on A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. The supposedly life-changing baseball scene is an homage to Bernard Malamud's The Natural, having been highlighted a great deal in the film version starring Robert Redford.

The supporting cast is also terrific: Linda Hamilton, Jon Lovtiz, Rene Russo, Courteney Cox, Hart Bochner (who, believe it or not, played Ellis in Die Hard), and Bill McCutcheon for the final role of his career. They all put their faith in the project and therefore gave credible performances. It's a charming movie that's often thought-provoking. The story is interesting. Another positive is how well-written the dialogue is. There aren't many profane words which is a refreshing change for once in a while.

All in all, Mr. Destiny may be It's a Wonderful Life all over again, but it's an enjoyable picture nonetheless.