There's A '90s Dan Aykroyd Movie That's Supposed To Be A Comedy, But I Think It's Nightmare Fuel

I'll never see hot dogs the same way again. In the 1980s, Dan Aykroyd was a key figure in some of the decade's best films, but one of his movies is neither funny nor a dark comedy—it’s genuinely terrifying. That film is 1991’s Nothing But Trouble.

If you’ve never heard of it or seen it, that’s understandable. It aired often on cable back then, and despite featuring a star-studded cast including Chevy Chase, Demi Moore, and John Candy, I admit I’ve watched it more times than it deserves.

The movie, which is also written and directed by Dan Aykroyd, features four of the biggest stars of the era.

When I reflect on the film now, I don’t think of humor but rather the unsettling atmosphere and flaws beyond just poor writing.

Star-Studded Cast’s Background

Chevy Chase had just come off National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, considered one of the best Christmas films ever.
John Candy had recently starred in Home Alone.
Demi Moore appeared in Ghost right before this movie.
Dan Aykroyd featured in My Girl earlier that same year.

It’s hard to imagine a more successful lineup of recent movies for the main actors, making the disappointment of Nothing But Trouble all the more striking.

Plot Overview

The film’s premise is straightforward: Chase and Moore’s characters embark on a road trip and end up in a strange, isolated town called Valkenvania.

I reluctantly admit I’ve watched it more times than it deserves.

This surreal and eerie setting sets the tone for what turns into a disturbing experience rather than a comedic one.

Author’s summary: Despite its star-studded cast and comedic intentions, Nothing But Trouble from 1991 stands out as a disturbing and unsettling film rather than a comedy.

Cinemablend — 2025-11-04