The Marrying Man (1991 film)

Principal cast and characters

• Kim Basinger as Vicki, the romantic interest whose choices drive much of the story.
• Alec Baldwin as Charley, a smooth-talking central figure prone to romantic misadventures.
• Elisabeth Shue, who appears in a supporting role that intersects with the leads.

The film's plot follows the ebb and flow of relationships among the main characters, blending screwball elements with contemporary romantic-comedy conventions. Scenes alternate between upbeat, comedic set pieces and quieter moments intended to explore commitment and attraction. The tone aims for lighthearted banter rather than serious drama.

Production and release

The picture was produced and distributed in the early 1990s when romantic comedies with star-driven casts were common. Marketing sometimes used the alternate title to emphasize the film's comic heat and to distinguish it in different territories. Production details, scheduling and promotional choices shaped audience expectations ahead of the theatrical run.

Reception and legacy

Critics were largely unfavorable toward the movie on its release, noting problems with script and tone in many reviews; summaries of contemporary criticism are collected at general review sources here. In awards commentary the film drew negative attention: Kim Basinger received a nomination associated with the Golden Raspberry Awards for Worst Actress, a record of the film's critical reception noted by awards trackers. Over time the movie is most often remembered for its cast rather than as a major success in the romantic-comedy genre.

For further basic information and credits see the general film listing here, and for alternate title references consult Too Hot to Handle. Additional background on the principal performers is available at their profiles: Basinger, Baldwin and Shue.

While it did not alter the course of the romantic-comedy formula, The Marrying Man remains a cultural footnote from the early 1990s and an example of star-driven studio releases of the era.