Modern Problems 1981

Max Fiedler, portrayed by Chevy Chase, finds himself ensnared in a lackluster routine as an air traffic controller at New York’s Kennedy International Airport. His professional turmoil is paralleled by the disarray in his personal life, exacerbated by the recent fallout with his girlfriend Darcy, who left him due to his jealousy and negative outlook. The ache of their separation is intensified each time he encounters Barry, her new, self-absorbed partner, amplifying Max’s frustration.

A fateful night at a Lower Manhattan nightclub—unexpectedly a gay club—sparks a series of unforeseen events after a tanker truck accidentally releases nuclear waste onto his vehicle. As he drives home, traces of this hazardous substance seep through his sunroof and into his skin, momentarily enveloping him in a strange green light before being absorbed. The following day, Max awakens to discover that this bizarre incident has granted him telekinetic powers. Initially, he channels this ability to sabotage Barry’s attempts to woo Darcy, but soon, Max’s self-esteem begins to rebuild, and he starts to win back Darcy’s heart.

Just as Max’s life appears to be taking a turn for the better, he receives an invitation for a weekend getaway at the beach house of Brian, an old friend now living as a paraplegic. Among the guests is the arrogant Mark Winslow, played by Dabney Coleman, a self-styled confidence guru who revels in undermining Max’s claims of telekinesis while also setting his sights on winning over Darcy. The combination of skepticism from his friends and Winslow’s sharp-tongued remarks slowly erodes Max’s newfound confidence.

The situation reaches a boiling point at a dinner party, where Max, unable to contain his humiliation, reveals his telekinetic abilities in a dramatic and embarrassing confrontation with Winslow. Plagued by feelings of inadequacy, Max escapes to the rooftop of Brian’s house, where a brewing thunderstorm mirrors his emotional turmoil. In a striking twist of fate, a lightning bolt hits him just as he is in despair, unwittingly transferring his powers to the observant voodoo-practicing maid Dorita, played by Nell Carter.

As the revelations of his erratic behavior begin to unfold, Darcy’s understanding leads her to forgive Max, solidifying his belief that her love for him is genuine and unwavering.