Movie Overview
Roxanne is a beloved 1987 comedy romance that breathes new life into the classic Cyrano de Bergerac story. Directed by Fred Schepisi, the film stars Steve Martin as C.D. Bales, the intelligent and charismatic fire chief of a small Washington town. Despite his bravery and wit, C.D. is deeply insecure about his exceptionally large nose. His world is turned upside down when he falls for the beautiful Roxanne Kowalski, played by Daryl Hannah, an astronomy student visiting for the summer. The plot thickens when Chris, a handsome but inarticulate new firefighter played by Rick Rossovich, also falls for Roxanne. Knowing he cannot win her with his own face, C.D. agrees to woo her on Chris's behalf by writing love letters and feeding him lines through a window.
As the deception continues, Roxanne falls for the soulful words she believes come from Chris, leaving C.D. in a painful dilemma. The film explores themes of inner beauty versus external appearance, self-acceptance, and the courage it takes to be vulnerable. Steve Martin delivers a career-defining performance, balancing physical comedy with genuine heartfelt emotion, while Daryl Hannah shines as a woman looking for a connection deeper than the superficial.
Critics praised Roxanne for its sharp script and warm tone. It holds an impressive 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a solid 73/100 on Metacritic, reflecting its positive reception. The movie also earned 3 wins and 2 nominations at various award ceremonies, including a Golden Globe nomination for Steve Martin. For those looking to watch online, this timeless gem is currently available on Netflix. Whether you are a fan of romantic comedies or classic storytelling, Roxanne remains a must-watch film that proves true love is about more than just looks.
