The Big Kahuna

Watch The Big Kahuna

  • R
  • 1999
  • 1 hr 30 min
  • 6.5  (14,987)
  • 56

The Big Kahuna is a 1999 comedy-drama film directed by John Swanbeck and written by Roger Rueff. The movie is based on Rueff's play Hospitality Suite and stars Kevin Spacey, Danny DeVito and Peter Facinelli in lead roles. The story revolves around three industrial lubricant salesmen, Dick (Kevin Spacey), Larry (Danny DeVito) and Bob (Peter Facinelli), who are working hard to close a deal with a potential client at an industry convention in Wichita. It's a make it or break it situation as the deal could transform their small company into a big profitable one.

The main setting of the movie is inside a hospitality suite, where the three salesmen are trying to lure Mr. Fuller, a potential client who is extremely tough to persuade. Throughout the movie, the three men engage in conversation, debates, and even arguments as they strategize to close the deal. But as the day wears on and the trio begins drinking more heavily, emotional barriers begin to fall and secrets are revealed.

In the film, Kevin Spacey plays Dick, a seasoned sales executive who is cynical about the sales process and the career path he has chosen. DeVito plays Larry, a loud and brash salesman who is not afraid to use any method - legal or illegal - to make a sale. Facinelli plays Bob, a young, ambitious and devout man who is new to the business and desperate to make a good impression.

Despite their differences, the three men must work together to try and win over Mr. Fuller. As the day goes on, the three men's personalities and beliefs are revealed, with the clash between Dick and Larry clearly evident. Dick is cynical and jaded, while Larry is an upbeat cheerleader that just wants to make the sale. Bob serves as the mediator between the two salespeople, caught between loyalty to his colleagues and the moral dilemma of whether their ultimate goal is worth the means they are using.

The Big Kahuna is a character-driven story with witty dialogues and powerful performances from all three actors. Along with the humor, the film has a deeper message about the true value of success, the flaws of corporate culture, and the importance of balancing personal integrity with professional ambition.

The film, set entirely in a single room, is visually creative and makes excellent use of lighting and camera angles. The minimalist setting allows for an intense focus on the characters and their interactions, with the tension slowly increasing as the men become more desperate to succeed.

The movie explores themes of ethics in business, the value of personal and professional relationships, and one's path in life. It is a fascinating look at the nature of salesmanship, and the psychology behind the people in the profession.

Overall, The Big Kahuna is a clever and compelling film that offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the world of sales, and human nature in general. A definite must-watch for anyone interested in character-driven dramas, as well as those into business, salesmanship and the corporate world.

The Big Kahuna is a 1999 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5 and a MetaScore of 56.

The Big Kahuna
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Where to Watch The Big Kahuna
The Big Kahuna is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Google Play and Vudu. Some platforms allow you to rent The Big Kahuna for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    1999
  • MPAA Rating
    R
  • Runtime
    1 hr 30 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.5  (14,987)
  • Metascore
    56
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