Jewel Bentley Revisited: Loryn Locklin’s Sultry Spark in 1990 Comedy Classic

A Wild Mix-Up Penned by a Future Blockbuster King (Image Credits: Imagez.tmz.com)

Actress Loryn Locklin turned heads at age 21 as the seductive Jewel Bentley in the 1990 hit “Taking Care of Business.”[1]

A Wild Mix-Up Penned by a Future Blockbuster King

Convicted car thief Jimmy Dworski dreamed of World Series tickets while serving time in a minimum-security prison. He sparked a riot to slip out and attend the game, only to stumble upon a lost Filofax belonging to uptight ad executive Spencer Barnes.[2]) That little black book held the keys to Spencer’s meticulously ordered life, from business contacts to personal secrets. Jimmy seized the chance, impersonating Spencer and diving headfirst into a world of luxury and chaos.

The script marked the screenwriting debut of Jeffrey Abrams, later known as J.J. Abrams, director of hits like “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”[2]) Directed by Arthur Hiller, the film blended buddy comedy with identity farce, echoing classics like “Trading Places.” Belushi’s rough-edged Jimmy clashed hilariously with Grodin’s buttoned-up Spencer, propelling the mismatched duo through high-stakes meetings and stadium escapades. Production wrapped with a $15 million budget, filmed partly at Angel Stadium in California.[2])

Jewel Bentley Lights Up the Screen

Jewel Bentley emerged as a pivotal temptress in Jimmy’s borrowed life. As the daughter of wealthy ad world figure Walter Bentley, she caught Jimmy posing as Spencer at the Malibu beach house. Their chemistry ignited steamy encounters that added spice to the con.[2])

Locklin delivered memorable lines that captured Jewel’s bold allure. “That was the best safe sex I’ve ever had!” she quipped after one passionate night.[3] Later, eyeing Jimmy’s tattooed arm, she teased, “You don’t look like the type to be married to a man with a tattoo.” These moments showcased her as more than eye candy – she fueled the film’s romantic tension and Jimmy’s deepening deception.[3] Her performance stood out amid the ensemble, blending flirtation with sharp wit.

Loryn Locklin’s Early Hollywood Break

Born in 1968 in Burbank, California, Locklin stepped into “Taking Care of Business” fresh from her film debut in “Catch Me If You Can” the year prior. At 21, she embodied the youthful, confident Jewel with ease, sharing scenes with comedy heavyweights Jim Belushi and Charles Grodin.[4] The role highlighted her knack for charismatic supporting parts in action and comedy.

Locklin’s career continued with standout turns, including Karen B. Brennick in the sci-fi thriller “Fortress” alongside Christopher Lambert. Guest spots on shows like “JAG,” “Frasier,” and “Home Improvement” followed, cementing her television presence. Now 57, she remains a familiar face from 1990s cinema.[4]

The Cast That Made It Click

“Taking Care of Business” boasted a lineup blending comedy veterans and rising talents. Key players included:

• James Belushi as Jimmy Dworski, the free-spirited convict.
• Charles Grodin as Spencer Barnes, the Filofax-obsessed exec.
• Loryn Locklin as Jewel Bentley, the boss’s alluring daughter.
• Stephen Elliott as Walter Bentley, Jewel’s father.
• Mako as Mr. Sakamoto, the Japanese client Jimmy offends hilariously.
• Veronica Hamel as Elizabeth Barnes, Spencer’s wife.

The ensemble dynamic drove the laughs, with Belushi and Grodin anchoring the odd-couple core. Critics noted the stars’ likability despite uneven scripting.[2]) The film earned an A- CinemaScore from audiences and grossed $20 million domestically.

Reception leaned mixed, with a 33% on Rotten Tomatoes. Some called it “safe and boring,” yet others praised its breezy charm and cast chemistry.[2])

Decades later, “Taking Care of Business” endures as a time capsule of 1990s comedy, with Locklin’s Jewel Bentley a standout memory of youthful allure amid corporate capers. What role from the film sticks with you most? Tell us in the comments.