Skin Deep (1989)

Blake Edwards' sharp, bittersweet comedy about a charming novelist undone by women, whiskey, and his own worst impulses.

Skin Deep - Movie Information

  • Original Title: Skin Deep
  • Release Year: 1989
  • Directed by: Blake Edwards
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Romance, Comedy, Drama
  • Age Rating (US): R
  • Runtime: 1h 37m
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • Release Date (Theatrical): March 3, 1989 (United States - R), August 31, 1989 (Germany - 16), June 14, 1989 (France), November 8, 1989 (South Korea - 18)
  • Alternative Titles: Lösa förbindelser (FI), Una cana al aire (ES)
  • Production Companies: Morgan Creek Entertainment, Beco Films
  • Production Countries: United States of America

Skin Deep - Plot

Hard-drinking novelist Zach Hutton spirals out of control after his wife and mistress both leave him. Alone and crippled by a bad case of writer's block, Zach slips in and out of casual relationships and one-night stands, while his drinking becomes more and more severe. With the help of a bartender and his therapist, Zach confronts his demons — women and alcohol.

Skin Deep - Trailer

See the chaos and comedy of Zach Hutton's world unfold in the official trailer:

The comedy that glows in the dark.

Where to Watch Skin Deep

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Skin Deep - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • Blake Edwards

Main Cast

  • John Ritter
  • Vincent Gardenia
  • Alyson Reed
  • Joel Brooks
  • Julianne Phillips
  • Chelsea Field
  • Peter Donat
  • Don Gordon
  • Nina Foch
  • Denise Crosby

Writers

  • Blake Edwards

Producers

  • Tony Adams

Skin Deep - FAQs

What is Skin Deep about?

Skin Deep follows Zach Hutton, a charming but self-destructive novelist whose life unravels after his wife and mistress both walk out on him. Drowning in alcohol and writer's block, he stumbles through a string of failed romances until a wise bartender and a therapist help him face his real demons.

What is the famous glow-in-the-dark condom scene?

One of the film's most memorable moments involves two men in a dark room wearing glow-in-the-dark condoms, resulting in a surreal, hilarious lightsaber-style duel. The scene became a cult classic and is widely considered one of the funniest set pieces in Blake Edwards' entire career.

Who are the main actors in Skin Deep?

John Ritter leads the cast as the lovably flawed Zach, with Vincent Gardenia as his bartender confidant Barney. Alyson Reed, Julianne Phillips, Chelsea Field, Denise Crosby, Joel Brooks, Peter Donat, Don Gordon, and Nina Foch round out the ensemble.

Where can you stream Skin Deep?

You can watch Skin Deep on Amazon Prime Video and Amazon Prime Video with Ads as part of a subscription. It's also available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Plex Channel offers it for free with ads.

Who directed Skin Deep and wrote the screenplay?

Blake Edwards both directed and wrote Skin Deep. Edwards was already celebrated for his work on the Pink Panther series and 10, and Skin Deep showcases his signature blend of broad physical comedy and surprisingly tender emotional undercurrents.

How did Skin Deep perform at the box office?

Skin Deep was a solid commercial success, earning around $45 million worldwide against a production budget of approximately $8.5 million. That kind of return made it a profitable venture for Morgan Creek Entertainment and confirmed John Ritter's appeal as a leading man in theatrical comedies.

What is the age rating for Skin Deep?

Skin Deep is rated R in the United States, reflecting its adult humor, sexual content, and frank treatment of alcoholism and infidelity. It's very much a grown-up comedy aimed at mature audiences who appreciate both the laughs and the more serious emotional threads running through the story.

Who composed the music for Skin Deep?

The score for Skin Deep was composed by Henry Mancini, the legendary musician behind Breakfast at Tiffany's and The Pink Panther theme. Mancini and Blake Edwards had a long creative partnership, and Mancini's warm, jazz-inflected work here perfectly complements the film's bittersweet comedic tone.

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