The Devil And Max Devlin

“The Devil and Max Devlin” is a 1981 fantasy comedy film produced by Walt Disney Productions. The movie was directed by Steven Hilliard Stern and stars Elliott Gould, Bill Cosby, and Susan Anspach.

The story follows Max Devlin (Elliott Gould), a ruthless and greedy landlord and real estate developer known for evicting tenants to make way for his projects. After he dies in a car accident, he finds himself standing before the Devil (Bill Cosby) in Hell. The Devil offers Max a chance to escape eternal damnation by striking a deal with him. Max must convince three innocent souls to sign their contracts with the Devil in exchange for his second chance at life on Earth.

Max accepts the deal and returns to Earth in the form of a nerdy, unattractive man named Barney Satin. He starts his mission to find three people to sign the contracts. However, things get complicated when he befriends Toby Hart (played by David Knell), a young and kind-hearted musician who is struggling to make it in the music industry. As Max gets to know Toby and his sister Andrea (played by Julie Budd), he begins to question his previous heartless actions and starts to feel remorse.

As the story unfolds, Max must make a difficult choice between carrying out his deal with the Devil and protecting the innocent souls he has grown to care for.

“The Devil and Max Devlin” explores themes of redemption, empathy, and the consequences of one’s actions. It blends humor with heartfelt moments and offers a unique perspective on the afterlife and the nature of good and evil.

The film received mixed reviews from critics but has gained a small cult following over the years. It is not as well-known as some other Disney movies, but it remains a charming and enjoyable fantasy comedy for audiences who appreciate its blend of comedy and moral lessons.

Overall, “The Devil and Max Devlin” showcases Disney’s attempt to explore more mature themes while still maintaining its signature comedic style. It may not be as iconic as some of Disney’s other films, but it remains an interesting addition to the studio’s diverse filmography.

Fun Facts

• The film features Susan Anspach as Penny Hart, a single mother and tenant of Max Devlin, who becomes an important character in Max’s journey of redemption. The movie combines elements of comedy, fantasy, and heartwarming moments as Max attempts to change his ways.