Things Change (1988)

Things Change is one of those deceptively modest movies that sneaks up on you: a Mamet crime comedy with the rhythm of a con and the heart of a late-blooming friendship. Don Ameche brings a quiet, old-world dignity to Gino that makes every scene feel grounded and human, while Joe Mantegna plays his jittery handler with just the right mix of bravado and vulnerability, letting the laughs come from character rather than mugging. The vibe is light on its feet—witty, observant, and gently suspenseful—gliding through casinos, wiseguys, and misunderstandings with the elegance of a well-practiced trick. It won’t satisfy viewers craving big action or broad slapstick, but if you like smart dialogue, lived-in performances, and an ending that lands with a soft, wistful punch, this one’s a small pleasure that lingers.

Things Change is clearly aiming for a low-key, character-driven mob comedy where small gestures and odd-couple warmth matter more than big twists or action. The problem is that Mamet’s minimalist style can feel too slight here: the pacing is deliberate, the story leans on improbabilities, and the humor often plays dry and mannered instead of laugh-out-loud. If you’re expecting a punchy crime caper with escalating chaos, you may find it oddly flat and undercooked. That said, Don Ameche and Joe Mantegna are genuinely likable together, and if you enjoy gentle, offbeat films that coast on atmosphere and friendship, it can be a modest, pleasant watch.