Because of his talent, charm and wisecracking sense of humour, David Basner (Hanks) is a self-made man on the fast track. He loves his job, his bank account is healthy, and women find him irresistible. Then his father Max (Gleason, in his final film performance) calls to give David the news that he and David's mother Lorraine (Saint) are calling it quits after 35 years. Now, besides the pressure of his own busy life, David has the new responsibility of taking care of his crotchety dad and emotionally supporting his mother. Through these experiences, David gains a new understanding and appreciation of his parents, with whom he thought he had nothing in common.