Nothing in Common (1986) — AI Story Visualization

Plot Analysis Summary

A shallow yuppie confronts his immaturity when family crisis collides with corporate ambition.

Story Structure — 4 Plot Phases

Awakening to Responsibility

David returns to work only to face his parents' sudden divorce and his father's job loss. He is forced to step into a caretaker role while navigating advice from his ex-girlfriend about maturing.

Key Events

• David Returns to Work — David resumes his job after vacation, unaware of impending family crisis. Characters: David Basner Location: Chicago office
• Parents Divorce Revealed — David learns his mother left his father after 36 years of marriage. Characters: David Basner Location: Home
• Father Loses Job — Max is fired after 35 years, increasing his reliance on David. Characters: David Basner Location: Home
• Ex-Girlfriend Advice — Donna tells David he needs to grow up, highlighting his immaturity. Characters: David Basner Location: Cafe
• Colonial Airlines Pitch — David presents a campaign for Woolridge's airline, eyeing partnership. Characters: David Basner, Andrew Woolridge Location: Office

Romantic Distractions

David pursues a relationship with Cheryl Ann Wayne to secure a major advertising account. His frivolous lifestyle draws criticism from his father and creates friction with his growing family duties.

Key Events

• Colonial Airlines Pitch — David presents a campaign for Woolridge's airline, eyeing partnership. Characters: David Basner, Andrew Woolridge Location: Office
• Romance with Cheryl Ann — David develops a physical relationship with Woolridge's daughter. Characters: David Basner, Cheryl Ann Wayne Location: Club
• Father's Criticism — Max criticizes David's frivolous lifestyle and playboy nature. Characters: David Basner Location: Home
• Mother's Bad Date — David is awakened by his mother's failed date, revealing family tension. Characters: David Basner Location: Apartment
• Father's Humiliation Revealed — Mother reveals Max's past sexual humiliation and infidelity. Characters: David Basner Location: Home
• David's Work Confession — David admits he is faking family love in his commercials. Characters: David Basner Location: Office

Crisis and Confrontation

Family secrets surface regarding his parents' past, and Max's severe diabetes diagnosis forces David to choose between corporate demands and filial duty. He refuses Woolridge's travel request, sacrificing his career.

Key Events

• David's Work Confession — David admits he is faking family love in his commercials. Characters: David Basner Location: Office
• Jazz Club Visit — David takes Max to a club as a peace offering. Characters: David Basner Location: Jazz Club
• Father's Diabetes Diagnosis — Max is diagnosed with severe diabetes, risking amputation. Characters: David Basner Location: Hospital
• Mother's Hospital Visit — Lorraine visits Max, condemning his past abuse. Characters: Cheryl Ann Wayne Location: Hospital
• Woolridge's New York Demand — Woolridge demands David travel to New York for promotion. Characters: David Basner, Andrew Woolridge Location: Office
• David Refuses & Loses Account — David chooses family over work, losing the Colonial account. Characters: David Basner Location: Office

Reconciliation and Growth

After Max's surgery, David finds emotional support and mutual interest with his ex-girlfriend. He brings his father to work, symbolizing his integration of personal responsibility and professional life.

Key Events

• David Refuses & Loses Account — David chooses family over work, losing the Colonial account. Characters: David Basner Location: Office
• Boss's Intervention — Charlie assures David he will intercede with Woolridge. Characters: David Basner Location: Office
• Father's Surgery — Max undergoes surgery, losing toes and part of a foot. Characters: David Basner Location: Hospital
• Donna's Support — Donna listens sympathetically to David's work and family struggles. Characters: David Basner Location: Park
• Father's Gratitude — Max thanks David for being the last person to come through. Characters: David Basner Location: Home
• Shooting with Father — David brings Max to the commercial set, integrating family and work. Characters: David Basner Location: Studio

Story Breakdown

• Professional Ambition — David's drive for partnership at his ad agency.
  • Colonial Pitch — David presents campaign to Woolridge.
  • Partnership Goal — Success promises corporate advancement.
• Family Crisis — Sudden collapse of parents' marriage and health.
  • Divorce Shock — Mother leaves after decades together.
  • Father Illness — Max faces diabetes and surgery.
• Romantic Entanglement — David's relationship with Cheryl Ann Wayne.
  • Cheryl Romance — Physical connection with Woolridge's daughter.
  • Lifestyle Clash — Father criticizes David's frivolous habits.
• Corporate Pressure — Woolridge's demands threaten David's choices.
  • New York Demand — Woolridge insists on promotional travel.
  • Account Loss — David refuses and loses the campaign.
• Personal Growth — David confronts his emotional immaturity.
  • Work Confession — David admits faking family love.
  • Father Gratitude — Max acknowledges David's support.
• Resolution Arc — Integration of family and professional life.
  • Surgery Support — David prioritizes father's operation.
  • Shooting Together — David brings Max to commercial set.

Directed by

Garry Marshall

Key Cast

• Tom Hanks — David Basner
• Jackie Gleason — Max Basner
• Eva Marie Saint — Lorraine Basner
• Héctor Elizondo — Charlie Gargas
• Barry Corbin — Andrew Woolridge