Risky Business

| 1983

Directed by: Paul Brickman

Main Plot

Risky Business follows the story of a high school student named Joel Goodsen, who is left home alone when his parents go away for the weekend. Seizing the opportunity for freedom, Joel indulges in a series of reckless adventures. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a call girl named Lana. Intrigued and drawn into her world, Joel decides to venture into the business of escorting to earn quick money. As he navigates this new and risky lifestyle, he faces various challenges, including the complications of running a business, the risks of deception, and the potential fallout from his choices. The film explores themes of adolescence, the pursuit of pleasure, and the consequences of one's actions, ultimately leading Joel to confront the realities of adulthood and responsibility.

Characters

  • Joel Goodson, a high school student, turns his house into a temporary brothel to cover the costs of damages after his parents leave town.
  • Rebecca De Mornay plays Lana, a call girl who becomes romantically involved with the protagonist, Joel, and helps him navigate a series of risky ventures.
  • Joe Pantoliano plays Guido, a pimp who complicates the protagonist's life by involving him in risky business ventures and escalating the stakes.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Risky Business, the protagonist, Joel, faces the consequences of his reckless decisions throughout the film. After a series of events involving a high-stakes business venture with a call girl, he finds himself in a precarious situation when his parents return home unexpectedly. In a bid to resolve the chaos he has created, Joel takes decisive action to regain control over his life and the mess he has made. He cleverly orchestrates a plan to sell the luxury car that he had previously borrowed, using the profits to pay off the debts incurred from his escapades. This act symbolizes his transition from a carefree teenager to a more responsible adult. The climax culminates in a confrontation with the people he has wronged, where he uses his newfound confidence and resourcefulness to navigate the challenges. Ultimately, the film concludes with Joel embracing a more mature outlook on life, as he reconciles his past mistakes and prepares for a future that balances his desires with responsibility. The resolution of the main conflict highlights themes of self-discovery and the consequences of youthful impulsiveness, reinforcing the narrative's exploration of growing up and taking charge of one's destiny.

Paul Brickman Comedy Crime Drama Tom Cruise Rebecca De Mornay Joe Pantoliano