Roxanne! A Hilarious Tale of Unrequited Love and Physical Quirks!

1987 was a remarkable year for cinema. From groundbreaking sci-fi epics like “Robocop” to heartwarming comedies like “Moonstruck,” audiences were treated to a diverse range of cinematic experiences. Yet, nestled among these giants emerged a charmingly quirky romantic comedy that has aged beautifully: “Roxanne.” Directed by Fred Schepisi and starring the brilliant Steve Martin, “Roxanne” is a delightful twist on Edmond Rostand’s classic play “Cyrano de Bergerac,” transposed to a contemporary setting and infused with Martin’s signature wit.

The film centers around C.D. Bales (Steve Martin), the fire chief of a small Washington town, who happens to have an exceptionally large nose. Despite his witty intellect and generous heart, C.D.’s insecurities about his appearance prevent him from pursuing Roxanne Kowalski (Daryl Hannah), a beautiful and intelligent woman who recently arrived in town.

Enter Chris (Rick Rossovich), a handsome but clueless firefighter, who falls head over heels for Roxanne. Recognizing an opportunity to help both himself and Chris, C.D. devises a plan: he’ll use his eloquent wordsmithing skills to woo Roxanne through Chris, essentially becoming a ghostly Cupid.

What follows is a delightful dance of deception, miscommunication, and hilarious situations. Steve Martin’s performance as the lovelorn C.D. is both endearing and laugh-out-loud funny. He embodies the character’s insecurities with vulnerability while showcasing his sharp wit and undeniable charm. The supporting cast is equally strong, with Daryl Hannah bringing a sweet innocence to Roxanne, and Rick Rossovich perfectly portraying the well-meaning but clueless Chris.

One of “Roxanne”’s greatest strengths lies in its masterful balance between humor and romance. It’s a film that can make you laugh out loud one minute, then tug at your heartstrings the next. The chemistry between Martin and Hannah is palpable, despite their unconventional courtship arrangement. The script, co-written by Steve Martin himself, sparkles with clever dialogue and witty observations on love, beauty, and self-acceptance.

Beyond its entertainment value, “Roxanne” offers some thought-provoking themes about inner beauty and the power of connection. C.D.’s journey is a reminder that true love transcends physical appearances, focusing instead on intelligence, kindness, and shared values. The film challenges societal norms by celebrating individuality and highlighting the importance of embracing our own uniqueness.

Here are some key elements that make “Roxanne” a truly memorable cinematic experience:

If you’re looking for a heartwarming romantic comedy that will leave you smiling long after the credits roll, “Roxanne” is an excellent choice. It’s a film that reminds us that true love sees beyond appearances and celebrates the unique qualities that make each individual special.