The basic ideas in "Mr. Destiny" shouldn't surprise anyone watching. After all, similar plots have appeared on many television shows and movies, such as "It's a Wonderful Life" and "Family Man". So there are no surprises here. Now this isn't really a huge complaint...the film is still enjoyable and it's a nice turn off your brain and enjoy sort of story.

The story begins long ago. Larry (Jim Belushi) is playing the championship game and strikes out....and years later, he STILL blames the direction of his life on this one incident. And, his secret wish is granted when a mysterious and magical guy (Michael Caine) appears and tells him that the past has been changed....he DID hit that ball and won the championship. Now, however, his life is so very different, as he lives in a huge mansion, married the boss' daughter, has a great classic car collection and much more. But what he doesn't have are his old friends and wife....and he misses that more than he possibly could have imagined.

The film is pleasant but also has one problem which impacted how much I enjoyed it.... Jim Belushi's character is simply too dumb at times. While he knows his life is completely different, he often thinks and acts as if it's his same old life....and ends up alienating a lot of people in the process. It really defies common sense when Larry acts this way...as if he really hasn't any concept of change. Why would he trust the man who he knew in his previous life if a devious Satan? Why would he cheat on his new wife when she adores him and treats him like a king? Why would he not try to explain away how oddly he's acting?! It's still enjoyable...but it doesn't make a lot of sense at times.

Larry Burrows has the distinct feeling he's missing out on something. Ever since he missed a crucial baseball shot at school that cost the championship, he's been convinced his life would have turned out better had he made that shot. Then one night his car breaks down again. Walking into the nearest bar to wait for the tow truck, Larry happens upon barman Mike, who unbeknown to Larry is about to change his life for ever...

The alternate life premise in cinema is hardly a new thing, stretching back to the likes of It's A Wonderful Life and showing no signs of abating with the quite recent Sandler vehicle that was Click. It's a sub-genre of fantasy that has over the years produced very mixed results. Back in 1990 was this James Belushi led production, rarely mentioned when the said topic arises, it appears that it has largely been forgotten. Which is a shame, for it oozes charm and is high scoring in the humour department. We know that we are being led to the ultimate message come the end, but it's still a fun and enjoyable path to be led down. The film also serves notice to what a fine comedy actor James Belushi was. I mean if his style of smart quipping and larking exasperation isn't your thing? then chances are you would avoid this film anyway. But for those engaged by the likes of Red Heat, K-9 and Taking Care of Business, well Mr. Destiny is right up your street. Along for the ride are Linda Hamilton, Michael Caine, Jon Lovitz, Hart Bochner, Jay O. Sanders, Rene Russo and Courteney Cox.

Mr. Destiny is pure escapist fun with a kicker of a message at its heart. 7/10

James Belushi delivers an ingratiating performance as Larry Burrows, an average-Joe junior executive at a sporting goods company who just can't live down a pivotal moment in his life. It was 20 years ago, and he was at bat during a high school baseball game and struck out at a crucial moment. Now, he has a pleasant life, married to a union rep (an adorable Linda Hamilton),but he still always wonders about what could have been.

Then, during one bad night (the night of his 35th birthday),he chances to meet magical bartender Mike (Sir Michael Caine),who is somehow able to transport Larry to an alternate reality where Larry hits the winning ball, marries the prom queen (Rene Russo),and is the president of the company. But all is not rosy in this other life. While some things may have changed for the better, Larry apparently did not. He learns that his incredible success came at a price: he turned into a major league slime ball.

Many of us do have cause to wonder how different our lives could be had we made different decisions. Therefore, "Mr. Destiny" is relatable. It may not be nearly on the level of "It's a Wonderful Life", but it IS well-intentioned and offers an entertaining mix of comedy and drama. Much humour is derived from Larry (who still retains his original personality, flummoxed that he could have turned into such a jerk) adjusting to a new life.

Sir Michael is just right in the role of the "destiny-bender", maintaining a light touch at all times. The supporting cast is wonderful and full of familiar faces: Jon Lovitz (as the goofy best friend),Hart Bochner (playing the role of a corporate villain to the hilt),Bill McCutcheon, Jay O. Sanders, Maury Chaykin, Pat Corley, Douglas Seale, Courteney Cox, Tony Longo, and Kathy Ireland (there's certainly no shortage of dynamite-looking ladies here).

While the message of "learning to appreciate what you've got" is stated quite bluntly, the movie IS appealing and hits lots of emotional buttons effectively.

Seven out of 10.