L.A. Story is a very funny romantic comedy fantasy satire film from 1991, written by and starring Steve Martin. It is set in Los Angeles, California and relates a series of episodes in the life of a ‘wacky weekend weatherman’ in Los Angeles. It includes surreal sequences in which he is offered romantic advice flashed to him by a lonely freeway sign. The movie has a lot of truth as well as satire of life in Los Angeles. Since I am originally from L.A. and spent most of my life there so far, I can relate to a lot of the jokes.
The story goes that Harris K. Telemacher, played by Steve Martin, is a TV meteorologist living in Los Angeles. He finds himself in a dead-end relationship and wants to find some meaning and magic in his life. At a luncheon with a group of friends, he is introduced to Sara, played by Victoria Tennant. Sara is a journalist from London, and Harris immediately becomes infatuated. Sara is in Los Angeles writing a story about the city and its people.
Driving home that night, his car breaks down along the freeway so he pulls over. He then notices that a freeway traffic condition sign seems to be displaying messages intended solely for him. The sign offers him cryptic advice on his love life throughout the film.
He begins to fall for Sara though the challenge is she has tentatively pledged to reconcile with her ex-husband, Roland. Harris feels that a relationship with Sara is unlikely so begins dating SanDeE, played by Sarah Jessica Parker. SanDeE is a ditzy wannabe spokes-model whom he meets at a clothing store. After his first date with her, Harris discovers that his long time partner Trudi has been cheating on him for three years with his agent.
This discovery leads him to pursue his romantic interest in Sara although this is complicated by his new relationship with SanDeE and by Sara’s feelings of her obligation to Roland.
I do not want to give away the ending for those who have yet to see the film. Let’s say the freeway signs give Harris the advise he needs to make the decisions that make every one smile.
Another thing I like about the movie is all the cameos. There are uncredited cameo appearances by Chevy Chase, Woody Harrelson, Paula Abdul, Martin Lawrence, Rick Moranis and Terry Jones.
There are several songs by Enya
Being from L.A., I recognized many of the filming locations. Lindsay from IAmNotAStalker.com has written about many of the locations here. Be sure to click through to her site and check it out.
L.A. Story is a film I can watch over and over and it always makes me smile.
Have you ever seen L.A. Story? There are many funny bits that a true Angeleno would find funny. If you are from L.A. is there one that stands out for you? Click here to leave a comment and share your opinion and experience. Would love to hear from you.
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