The Couch Trip is a 1988 film directed by Michael Ritchie. The film's plot is a comedy that follows the adventures of an escaped convict who pretends to be a famous therapist to become a television star but ends up clashing with a real psychiatrist. 

Plot

The story revolves around John Burns (played by Dan Aykroyd), a convict who escapes from prison and ends up in Los Angeles. John stumbles upon a building where the office of George Maitlin (played by Charles Grodin), a famous radio therapist, is located. When George Maitlin is out of town, John decides to impersonate him and take his place in the radio studio, pretending to be the therapist.

His unconventional style and humorous responses quickly capture the audience's attention, and he becomes a radio star under the pseudonym "Dr. Lawrence Baird." His popularity grows rapidly, but the real George Maitlin returns to town and discovers the imposture.

The plot unfolds with George Maitlin trying to expose John Burns, while John continues to try to maintain his new identity and lifestyle. The situation becomes increasingly chaotic and comedic as the two men clash in a series of unpredictable events.

The film offers an entertaining comedy that highlights the contrast between the world of traditional therapy and the allure of an improvised television therapist. The performances of Dan Aykroyd and Charles Grodin contribute to the fun of the story.

Director: Michael Ritchie

Writer: Ken Kolb

Producers: Robert W. Cort, Ted Field

Music: Richard Gibbs

Main Cast:

• Dan Aykroyd as Dr. George Maitlin
• Walter Matthau as John Burns
• Charles Grodin as Dr. Lawrence Baird
• Donna Dixon as Vera Maitlin
• Mary Gross as Louise
• David Clennon as Dr. Petrovich
• Victoria Jackson as Robin

Major Awards: The film received mixed reviews from critics.

Box Office Gross: The film achieved modest box office earnings.

Critical Reception: The Couch Trip is a 1988 comedy featuring a talented cast including Dan Aykroyd, Walter Matthau, and Charles Grodin. The plot revolves around an inmate, played by Dan Aykroyd, who escapes from a psychiatric hospital and impersonates a successful psychiatrist. He ends up hosting a popular radio program and becomes a highly sought-after therapist. The film was praised for the performances of the actors, especially Dan Aykroyd, who received positive reviews for his performance. However, critical opinions were mixed, and the film was not a major box office success. Nevertheless, it has developed a certain fan base over the years.