Outrageous Fortune

This film was part of Midler's 5 film hit streak for Disney in the late 80s - Down and Out in Beverly Hills, Ruthless People, Outrageous Fortune, Big Business & Beaches. Shelley Long (while still working in Cheers) was attached to the project first, but in the end Fortune became one of Midler's vehicles that showcased her brass & humor. Although these actresses mixed like oil and water (they battled before takes- Long is a method actress while Midler is the actress that works to play out the joke to its fullest) their chemistry was strong. It was refreshing to see women starring in comedies in the late 80s instead of remaining supporting players. Movies like Feds, Jumping Jack Flash, Baby Boom, Protocol, and Midler's Big Business were more than films with funny ladies in them. They were funny movies with strong female characters that had depth and meaning. I credit Midler's success with ushering in more parts for women in comedies. Outrageous Fortune is a quick paced buddy movie that starts with two out of work actresses trading barbs while dating the same man. When this is discovered by the two leads, the film shifts into a buddy caper film. With great supporting players (including George Carlin) and a clever script by Leslie Dixon the film is full of laughs, great lines "My mother warned me about men like him" Long cries out "I hate it when she's right!" And Midler pushing the envelope "get over yourself, that guy's not going to hurt us....because we're going to get raped and murdered in this building" While many 80s comedy films do not stand the test of time (Tough Guys anyone.......) this film continues to be funny and to entertain. Midler received a Golden Globe nomination and won an American Comedy award for her work here.