How a 1986 romantic comedy redefined the screen careers of the Brat Pack
In short: Before it became a box office hit, About Last Night was a stage play by David Mamet. The film adaptation, starring Rob Lowe and Demi Moore, captured the messy reality of Chicago yuppie life, earning critical acclaim for its grounded performances and frank look at modern dating and relationship dynamics.
Directed by Edward Zwick and released in July 1986, About Last Night follows Danny Martin and Debbie Sullivan, two young professionals navigating their first serious relationship. Based on David Mamet’s 1974 play Sexual Perversity in Chicago, the screenplay by Tim Kazurinsky and Denise DeClue shifts the focus toward the complexities of cohabitation and the friction caused by their social circles. The film was notable for its cast, featuring screen debuts for Elizabeth Perkins and Catherine Keener, while providing Rob Lowe and Demi Moore with roles that critics felt showcased their acting range far better than previous projects like St. Elmo's Fire.
The production was not without its behind-the-scenes drama. At one stage, Bill Murray and Nick Nolte were attached to the lead and supporting roles, respectively, but a disastrous meeting between the two actors led them to abandon the project. Once the film reached theaters, however, it found significant success. It grossed over $38.7 million domestically, ranking as the 26th highest-grossing film of 1986 and the 10th highest-grossing R-rated film of that year. Audiences were particularly receptive, awarding it an A- grade in CinemaScore surveys.
Critical reception was generally favorable, with the film holding a 65% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 70/100 score on Metacritic. Roger Ebert awarded it a perfect four stars, praising its fearlessness in depicting real people rather than relying on special effects. While some critics, such as Vincent Canby, felt the film covered familiar ground regarding the singles scene, others lauded the writers' intimate knowledge of contemporary sexual skirmishes. The film’s legacy continues to be recognized, including a 2014 remake featuring a predominantly Black cast, cementing its status as a notable entry in the romantic comedy-drama genre.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: About Last Night (1986 film)
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