The Sure Thing
The Sure Thing

Movie spotlight

The Sure Thing

1985
Movie
95 min
English

Gib, a beer-guzzling slob, and Alison, an uptight Ivy-Leaguer, are an unlikely duo stuck together on a cross-country trip during Christmas break. At first they get on each other's nerves but, as time passes, they find their divergent natures complement each other. Now they need to realize what they've already found before it's too late.

Insights

IMDb6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes74%
Metacritic65/100
Google Users84%
Director: Rob ReinerGenres: Comedy, Romance

Plot Summary

A college student, Walter Gibson, is determined to get to Los Angeles to meet a woman he believes is 'the one.' However, his cross-country journey is fraught with mishaps and unexpected encounters, especially with the cynical but sharp-witted Allison Kirk. As they navigate their way together, initial animosity slowly transforms into mutual understanding and perhaps something more.

Critical Reception

The Sure Thing was a modest commercial success and received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its witty dialogue, charming performances, and relatable exploration of young adult romance and self-discovery. It's often cited as a quintessential romantic comedy of the 1980s.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sharp, witty dialogue and genuine romantic chemistry between the leads.

  • Appreciated for its realistic portrayal of college life and the awkwardness of finding love.

  • Noted for its smart, character-driven humor that avoids typical teen comedy tropes.

Google audience: Audiences largely enjoyed the film's humor and the satisfying romantic arc, finding it a charming and well-acted romantic comedy that holds up well over time. Many appreciate the relatable characters and the journey of self-discovery depicted.

Fun Fact

Director Rob Reiner initially wanted to cast Tom Cruise as Walter, but John Cusack's audition reportedly impressed Reiner so much that he changed his mind.

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