Tom Hanks Clashed With a TV Legend In This Underrated Gem

Tom Hanks first revealed his dramatic depth opposite Jackie Gleason in Garry Marshall's 'Nothing in Common'.

Feb. 22, 2026 at 12:55pm

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The prestigious career of Tom Hanks has been marked by dynamic performances alongside some of the best actors in cinema. He touched the hearts of audiences worldwide opposite Meg Ryan in three popular romantic comedies. He also sharpened his dramatic skills working opposite Denzel Washington in Hanks's Oscar-winning hit, Philadelphia. But Hanks's first true test as a serious actor came in 1986, when he played the angst-ridden yuppie son of the legendary Jackie Gleason in Garry Marshall's Nothing in Common.

Why it matters

Nothing in Common showcased Hanks's dramatic potential and gave Gleason one last opportunity to remind audiences he was more than Ralph Kramden of The Honeymooners fame. The film's organic blend of comedy and drama opened the door to more layered performances like Big and helped pave the way toward an Oscar-winning career for Hanks.

The details

Marking a departure from his nice-guy roles, Hanks plays successful yet immature Chicago ad agency executive David Basner. He embodies the decade's yuppie culture with expensive suits, a Jeep, and a physical relationship with a wealthy airline heiress (Sela Ward). David's ambitions are soon sidelined when his mother, Lorraine (Eva Marie Saint), leaves his salesman father, Max (Gleason), who is subsequently fired from his garment-business job. David becomes a reluctant caretaker to the testy Max while Lorraine reenters the dating scene. Bouncing between the needs of both parents, David's work begins to suffer. When Max develops serious health issues, David must reconcile years of resentment toward his father and confront resurfacing feelings for his ex-girlfriend Donna (Bess Armstrong), who believes it is time for the boy to become a man.

  • Nothing in Common was released in 1986.
  • Jackie Gleason passed away in 1987.

The players

Tom Hanks

An acclaimed American actor who has starred in numerous hit films, including Philadelphia and the Meg Ryan romantic comedies. Nothing in Common marked an early dramatic turn in his career.

Jackie Gleason

A legendary American comedian, actor, writer, composer and conductor, best known for his role as Ralph Kramden in the 1950s sitcom The Honeymooners. Nothing in Common served as a bittersweet farewell for Gleason, who passed away the following year.

Garry Marshall

An American film director, producer, screenwriter, and actor who directed Nothing in Common, marking a turning point in his career from Happy Days producer to dominant romantic-comedy filmmaker.

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The takeaway

Nothing in Common showcased Tom Hanks's dramatic range and versatility as an actor, moving beyond his earlier comedic roles and paving the way for his acclaimed dramatic performances in films like Philadelphia. The film also served as a poignant farewell for the legendary Jackie Gleason, who brought depth and vulnerability to his role as Hanks's flawed father.