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Nothing In Common

1987TV ShowEnded1 SeasonEnglish

Nothing in Common was a 1987 television series on NBC starred Todd Waring in the role of David Basner and Bill Macy in the role of Max Basner. Seven episodes were broadcast immediately after the highly-rated series Cheers but didn't pick enough audiences. The short-lived series was cancelled because of low turnout. The series was inspired by the 1986 film by Garry Marshall starring Tom Hanks and Jackie Gleason also entitled Nothing in Common in which Hanks played David Basner and Gleason protrayed Max Basner. Todd Waring later reprised another Tom Hanks role in a TV sequel to Splash for The Wonderful World of Disney called Splash, Too.

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Insights

IMDb5.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes47%
Metacritic50/100
Google Users72%
Director: Garry MarshallGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

David Basner is a highly successful but emotionally detached advertising executive whose life is thrown into chaos when his parents announce their divorce. Forced to confront his strained relationship with his irascible father, David finds himself navigating complex family dynamics and re-evaluating his own priorities, both personal and professional. Through this unexpected crisis, he begins to understand the true meaning of connection and reconciliation.

Critical Reception

Nothing in Common received mixed to positive reviews from critics. While Tom Hanks' performance was widely praised, some critics found the film's blend of comedy and drama to be uneven. The movie was a moderate box office success.

What Reviewers Say

  • Tom Hanks delivers a charming performance as a man forced to re-examine his life.
  • The film struggles to balance its comedic and dramatic elements effectively.
  • Jackie Gleason's portrayal of the aging father is a standout, bringing pathos to the role.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated Tom Hanks' performance and the emotional core of the story, finding it a relatable exploration of family relationships, though some noted the film's tonal shifts could be jarring.

Fun Fact

The film marked one of Jackie Gleason's last major film roles before his death in 1987.

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