Cocktail (1988)

Brian Flanagan, having just finished his stint in the Army, heads back to New York City and meets his Uncle Pat at his bar. He talks about making a million dollars. Brian goes to many interviews but is laughed out of all the corporate jobs because he lacks a degree. Brian gets a part-time job as a bartender at night while studying for a business degree by day. Over time, he learns the tricks of the trade, including flairing, from his mentor, Doug Coughlin. His advice usually begins with “Coughlin’s Law.” Brian quits college, maintaining his personal aspirations, but Doug is wary of the two starting their own bar together. Doug intends to call his bar “Cocktails & Dreams.”

Eventually, Brian and Doug’s bartending act becomes popular and they end up working at a trendy nightclub. As their popularity rises, Brian becomes the focus of attention from a woman named Coral. Coral is a wealthy photographer. Doug is alarmed that Coral is coming between their partnership and bets Brian that Coral will leave by week’s end. Unbeknownst to Brian, Doug tricks Coral into sleeping with him.