The Wild Premise of Walk Like a Man
Walk Like a Man, a 1987 comedy from Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, dives headfirst into an absurd yet intriguing premise: what happens when a man raised by wolves is reintroduced to human civilization? This film centers on Bobo, a feral man who, after years of living in the wild, is discovered and reunited with his high-society family thanks to the efforts of a dedicated researcher. His return, however, is far from a joyous reunion for everyone. Specifically, his brother Reggie sees Bobo's sudden appearance as a direct threat to his claim on a substantial family inheritance. The official tagline perfectly captures the stakes: "What does a $30,000,000 inheritance mean to a guy who thinks he's a dog? It means his brother Reggie wants him to roll over and play dead." Expect plenty of fish-out-of-water gags as Bobo navigates table manners, social graces, and the complexities of human family dynamics, all while Reggie schemes to send him back to the wilderness.
Unpacking the Production and Cast of Walk Like a Man
The comedic vision for Walk Like a Man was brought to the screen by director Melvin Frank, a seasoned filmmaker known for his work in the comedy genre. The film boasts a recognizable cast of comedic talent, led by Howie Mandel in the central role of Bobo. Mandel, a stand-up comedian and actor famous for his energetic performances and physical humor, was perfectly cast to embody the wild, untamed spirit of a man who thinks he's a dog. His commitment to the character, often involving crawling, barking, and general canine-like behavior, is a highlight. He's joined by the inimitable Christopher Lloyd, who plays the conniving brother Reggie, bringing his distinctive blend of intensity and comedic timing to the villainous role. Rounding out the main cast are Amy Steel and the legendary Cloris Leachman, both contributing to the film's ensemble dynamic. Released to theaters on April 17, 1987, Walk Like a Man runs a brisk 86 minutes, ensuring a fast-paced comedic experience. While not a critical darling or a box office sensation upon its release—it currently holds an IMDb rating of 4.827/10—it's developed a certain cult following over the years among fans of quirky 80s comedies. For those curious about its availability, Movie OTT tracks current streaming availability across major services, ensuring you don't miss out.
Finding the Humor in Walk Like a Man's Chaos
Honestly, Walk Like a Man isn't going to win any awards for subtlety. It's broad. It's silly. But that's precisely where its charm lies for many viewers. The film leans heavily into the slapstick potential of its premise, with Howie Mandel delivering a performance that's all physical comedy and uninhibited animalistic behavior. Watching Bobo try to eat with a fork, or react to a vacuum cleaner as if it were a predator, provides some genuinely funny moments. Christopher Lloyd, as the perpetually exasperated Reggie, offers a fantastic foil; his increasingly desperate attempts to sabotage Bobo are a comedic goldmine. There’s a particular scene where Reggie tries to “train” Bobo to be more human, which just descends into pure, chaotic hilarity. It’s hard not to appreciate Cloris Leachman's turn as the eccentric matriarch, too—always a joy to watch her. What's striking is how the film, despite its lowbrow humor, subtly touches on themes of nature versus nurture and the superficiality of high society, even if it doesn't dwell on them deeply. As one contemporary review from Variety noted, the film "embraces its outlandish premise with gusto, delivering laughs through sheer commitment to the bit, if not always nuanced storytelling." It’s a film that knows exactly what it is: an unpretentious, goofy 80s romp. Sometimes, you just need that kind of movie. Pure escapism.
Where to Stream Walk Like a Man Online
For those ready to dive into the wild world of Bobo and his dysfunctional family, Walk Like a Man is readily accessible across major OTT services. This means you can likely find it available for rent or purchase on platforms that host a wide array of classic and contemporary films. While specific platform availability can shift, Movie OTT is your go-to resource for the most up-to-date information. Just check the "Where to Watch" widget at the top of this page for a comprehensive list of all current streaming options. Whether you're planning a nostalgic rewatch or discovering this unique 80s comedy for the first time, finding Walk Like a Man shouldn't be an issue. Movie OTT consistently updates its listings, ensuring you have the latest details on where to enjoy your next movie night.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What is Walk Like a Man about? A: Walk Like a Man is a 1987 comedy film about Bobo, a man who was raised by wolves. He is reunited with his wealthy human family, much to the dismay of his scheming brother, Reggie, who fears Bobo will cut into his inheritance.
Q: Who are the main stars of Walk Like a Man? A: The film stars Howie Mandel as Bobo, Christopher Lloyd as his brother Reggie, alongside Amy Steel and Cloris Leachman.
Q: When was Walk Like a Man released? A: Walk Like a Man premiered in theaters on April 17, 1987.
Q: Is Walk Like a Man considered a good movie? A: While it holds a modest IMDb rating of 4.827/10, Walk Like a Man is often appreciated by fans of 80s comedies and those who enjoy the specific comedic styles of its lead actors, Howie Mandel and Christopher Lloyd. It's definitely a cult classic for some.
Is Walk Like a Man Worth Your Time?
If you're a fan of 1980s comedies, particularly those that embrace a high-concept, low-brow approach, then Walk Like a Man might just be a delightful discovery or a nostalgic revisit. It's a film that doesn't take itself too seriously, offering a good dose of physical comedy and a memorable premise. For enthusiasts of Howie Mandel's early work or Christopher Lloyd's distinct villainous charm, this film is a must-see. It's a simple, straightforward comedy that delivers exactly what it promises: a man-raised-by-wolves causing havoc in high society. Sometimes, that's all you need for a fun, lighthearted watch. Check Movie OTT to see where you can stream it tonight.
