Jumpin’ Jack Flash Movie Cast: Whoopi Goldberg’s Comedy

Are you a fan of hilarious spy comedies? Look no further than “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” the 1986 American film directed by Penny Marshall and starring the incredible Whoopi Goldberg. This action-packed comedy boasts an ensemble cast that will have you laughing from start to finish. Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of espionage with Terry Doolittle, a bank employee who finds herself entangled in a web of international intrigue.

• Join Whoopi Goldberg in a side-splitting spy adventure in the 1986 film “Jumpin’ Jack Flash.”
• Directed by Penny Marshall, the movie features an ensemble cast including Stephen Collins, John Wood, Carol Kane, and Annie Potts.
• Follow Terry Doolittle, a bank employee, as she becomes embroiled in international espionage after receiving a coded message from a British spy.
• Enjoy the energetic soundtrack featuring songs from artists like Bananarama and The Rolling Stones.
• Although the film received mixed reviews upon its release, it has gained a cult following over the years.

Plot Synopsis

The film Jumpin’ Jack Flash follows the story of Terry Doolittle, a computer operator at a Manhattan bank. One day, Terry receives a coded message on her screen from a British Intelligence agent named Jumpin’ Jack Flash. Intrigued, Terry sets out to solve the agent’s riddles and unwittingly becomes entangled in a dangerous world of spies and espionage.

As Terry navigates through dangerous situations and outwits the KGB, she must find a way to help Jumpin’ Jack Flash and ultimately save herself. Along the way, Terry’s wit and determination are tested as she uncovers secrets, forms unexpected alliances, and faces off against formidable adversaries.

The plot of Jumpin’ Jack Flash combines elements of comedy, suspense, and action, creating a thrilling and entertaining experience for viewers. The film’s fast-paced storytelling, clever dialogue, and unpredictable twists and turns make it a memorable and enjoyable spy comedy.

In summary, Jumpin’ Jack Flash is a fun-filled adventure that takes audiences on a wild ride with Terry Doolittle as she delves into the world of international espionage. With its engaging plot, charismatic performances, and comedic moments, the film offers a unique blend of humor and excitement that has captivated audiences since its release.

Main Characters

In the 1986 spy comedy film Jumpin’ Jack Flash, a talented ensemble cast brings the characters to life. Whoopi Goldberg takes on the lead role of Terry Doolittle, a bank employee who becomes entangled in international espionage. Stephen Collins portrays Marty Phillips, a colleague of Terry’s who assists her in her mission. John Wood plays Jeremy Talbot, a British Intelligence agent who sends Terry the coded message that sets the story in motion.

Joining the main cast are Carol Kane as Cynthia, Terry’s quirky friend; Annie Potts as Liz Carlson, her sassy coworker; and Peter Michael Goetz as Mr. Page, Terry’s boss at the bank. Each actor brings their own unique talents and energy to their respective roles, creating a dynamic and memorable ensemble that adds to the overall enjoyment of the film.

The chemistry and interactions between the characters drive the plot forward, as Terry navigates the world of espionage with wit and determination. The performances of the main cast members contribute to the comedic and thrilling aspects of the film, making Jumpin’ Jack Flash an entertaining and memorable viewing experience.

Production and Development

The making of Jumpin’ Jack Flash had its fair share of challenges and changes before reaching the big screen. Originally, the film was intended to star Shelley Long, but the role ultimately went to Whoopi Goldberg, who brought her unique comedic talent to the lead character of Terry Doolittle. The movie also encountered some production issues, leading to a change in directors early on. Penny Marshall stepped in and infused her vision into the project, resulting in a memorable spy comedy.

One of the key contributors to the film’s success was the involvement of screenwriters Marty Kurzfeld and Christopher Thompson, who were brought in by Marshall to rework the screenplay. Their fresh perspective and comedic sensibilities added a new layer of humor and excitement to the story. Additionally, the production extensively utilized various locations in New York City to bring the film’s settings to life, creating an authentic and immersive experience for viewers.

Production Details

Table: Jumpin’ Jack Flash Production Details

Overall, despite the challenges faced during production, Jumpin’ Jack Flash managed to overcome obstacles and deliver a hilarious and entertaining spy comedy that continues to captivate audiences to this day.

Soundtrack

The Jumpin’ Jack Flash soundtrack is a vibrant and energetic compilation of songs that perfectly complement the film’s comedic and espionage elements. Featuring a mix of popular artists from the 80s, the soundtrack captures the essence of the era and adds to the overall enjoyment of the viewing experience.

The soundtrack includes catchy tracks like “Save It Til Morning” by René & Angela, “Dance Hall Days” by Wang Chung, and “Respectable” by Mel & Kim. These upbeat songs create a lively and upbeat atmosphere, enhancing the film’s comedic moments and adding rhythm to the action-packed sequences.

Another standout track on the soundtrack is “Jumpin’ Jack Flash” by The Rolling Stones, which serves as the film’s theme song. The iconic rock band’s energetic performance perfectly sets the tone for the movie and adds a touch of nostalgia for fans of classic rock.

With its eclectic mix of songs, the Jumpin’ Jack Flash soundtrack is a must-have for fans of 80s music and adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the film. Whether you’re a fan of catchy pop tunes or classic rock anthems, this soundtrack is sure to get you grooving along with Terry Doolittle on her thrilling espionage adventure.

Box Office and Reception

Jumpin’ Jack Flash was released on October 10, 1986, with a budget of $18 million. Despite its modest budget, the film went on to gross $29.8 million at the box office, making it a financial success. While not a huge blockbuster, the film attracted a decent audience and earned a profit for its producers.

However, the critical reception of Jumpin’ Jack Flash was mixed. Some critics praised Whoopi Goldberg’s performance and the film’s comedic moments, finding it entertaining and enjoyable. They appreciated the comedic timing and chemistry among the cast. On the other hand, some critics felt that the plot was lacking and the humor didn’t land as effectively as it could have.

Regardless of the mixed reviews, Jumpin’ Jack Flash has gained a cult following over the years. Fans of the film appreciate its unique blend of comedy and espionage, finding it to be a charming and entertaining watch. The film’s witty dialogue and playful tone have resonated with audiences, making it a beloved 80s comedy that continues to be enjoyed today.

Jumpin’ Jack Flash Box Office Performance

Director and Screenwriters

Penny Marshall, the acclaimed actress and filmmaker, made her theatrical film directorial debut with Jumpin’ Jack Flash. Marshall brought her unique vision and comedic sensibilities to the project, elevating the film with her distinctive style. She took over the film early in production, stepping in as director and infusing the movie with her signature charm and wit.

The screenplay for Jumpin’ Jack Flash was written by David H. Franzoni, J. W. Melville, Patricia Irving, and Christopher Thompson, with a story by David H. Franzoni. These talented screenwriters crafted a comedic spy thriller that strikes a balance between humor and suspense. Their collaborative efforts resulted in a script that showcases the talents of the cast and delivers an entertaining and engaging story.

Critical and Audience Reception

Jumpin’ Jack Flash received mixed reviews from critics upon its release. While some praised the performances and comedic moments, others found the plot to be disjointed. The film holds a rating of 33% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics’ consensus stating, “Whoopi Goldberg’s undeniable talent can’t quite save Jumpin’ Jack Flash from its clunky screenplay and inconsistent tone.”

Despite the initial critical reception, Jumpin’ Jack Flash has developed a strong and dedicated following over the years. Audiences have come to appreciate the film’s unique blend of comedy and espionage, with many praising Whoopi Goldberg’s charismatic performance as Terry Doolittle. The film has gained a cult status, finding its place among beloved 80s comedies.

“Jumpin’ Jack Flash is an entertaining romp that showcases Whoopi Goldberg’s comedic talent. It may not be perfect, but its charm and wit make it a fun watch for fans of the genre.” – Entertainment Weekly

Viewers have expressed their enjoyment of the film’s witty dialogue, fast-paced action, and entertaining espionage elements. The combination of comedy and suspense keeps audiences engaged throughout the film. While some may find the plot to be lacking in coherence, the overall entertainment value of Jumpin’ Jack Flash remains undeniable.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Jumpin’ Jack Flash has left a lasting legacy in the world of comedy films, securing its status as a cult classic. With its unique blend of humor and espionage, the movie has garnered a devoted following that appreciates its timeless charm and witty dialogue.

At the heart of the film’s success is the remarkable performance of Whoopi Goldberg. Her portrayal of Terry Doolittle showcases her versatility as an actress and solidifies her reputation as a charismatic performer. Goldberg’s comedic timing and ability to bring depth to her character have made Terry Doolittle a beloved figure in the world of comedy.

Jumpin’ Jack Flash’s cultural impact extends beyond its initial release in 1986. The film’s memorable scenes and quotable lines have become ingrained in popular culture, inspiring references and homages in subsequent films and television shows. Its influence can be seen in the comedic spy genre, as well as in the portrayal of strong and independent female protagonists.

With its enduring popularity, Jumpin’ Jack Flash continues to entertain audiences today. The film’s ability to captivate and amuse viewers, coupled with its cult status, ensures that it will be enjoyed by generations to come.