Only the Lonely 1991
"Before he can tie the knot, he has to untie the apron strings."
In Chris Columbus' heartfelt 1991 comedy-romance *Only the Lonely*, John Candy stars as Danny Muldoon, a lovable Chicago cop who still lives under the watchful eye of his fiercely controlling mother, Rose.
Director: Chris Columbus
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Only the Lonely (1991) about?
The film follows Danny Muldoon, a Chicago cop who's never really left home—or escaped his overbearing mother's grip. When he falls for Theresa Luna, whose family runs the local funeral home, their romance hits a snag thanks to Danny's mom, who isn't ready to let go. The story becomes a charming tug-of-war between love and family loyalty.
Who directed Only the Lonely?
Chris Columbus, known for his work on family-friendly hits like *Home Alone*, directed *Only the Lonely* with a mix of humor and heart.
Who stars in Only the Lonely?
The film features John Candy as Danny Muldoon, alongside Maureen O'Hara, Ally Sheedy, Kevin Dunn, and Milo O'Shea.
Is Only the Lonely (1991) worth watching?
While not a blockbuster, *Only the Lonely* shines as a warm, nostalgic comedy with strong performances from Candy and Sheedy. Its blend of humor and heart makes it a worthwhile watch, especially for fans of classic 90s rom-coms.
How long is Only the Lonely?
The film runs for 104 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Only the Lonely (1991) — John Candy's romantic comedy with a meddling mom twist
In Chris Columbus' heartfelt 1991 comedy-romance *Only the Lonely*, John Candy stars as Danny Muldoon, a lovable Chicago cop who still lives under the watchful eye of his fiercely controlling mother, Rose. When Danny crosses paths with Theresa Luna (Ally Sheedy), a kind-hearted woman with a quirky family background—her father owns the local funeral parlor—he finds himself drawn into a whirlwind romance. Yet their budding love story is instantly complicated by Mrs. Muldoon, whose disapproval threatens to derail their happiness. With warmth and gentle humor, the film explores themes of independence, family ties, and the universal struggle to break free while staying true to those we love.
Set against the gritty yet nostalgic backdrop of 1990s Chicago, *Only the Lonely* blends witty dialogue with tender moments, creating an atmosphere that's both relatable and uplifting. The chemistry between Candy and Sheedy anchors the story, while Maureen O'Hara's sharp portrayal of the domineering Rose adds layers of both humor and heartache. It's a classic underdog tale where love must navigate the tangled web of family expectations.