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The Accidental Tourist

1988, Movie, PG, 121 mins

The Accidental Tourist: Review

Writer-director Kasdan's fine adaptation of Tyler's novel hinges on Hurt's understated performance as a writer of travel guides for businessmen who hate to travel. Shortly after his wife, Turner (who starred opposite Hurt in Kasdan's BODY HEAT), leaves him, he breaks a leg and moves in with his oddball middle-aged sister and brothers (Wright, Begley, and Stiers). Because his dead son's Welsh corgi has become a disciplinary problem, Hurt calls upon the dog-training services of Davis, a vibrant divorcee. They begin an awkward relationship that is further complicated when Turner wants to patch things up. Kasdan has remained true to the spirit of Tyler's award-winning novel, preserving much of her wonderful dialogue and humor. Hurt's performance is remarkably assured, and Davis beautifully captures her character's insouciance. Less than perfect is Turner, whose capable performance presents a figure somewhat hollow at the center. Although some may find the film slow-moving, its rich characterizations alone makes it well worth watching. Davis won the Best Supporting Actress Oscar. The film was nominated for Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Original Score.