In spite of almost overwhelming odds, two distant cousins, Balki (BRONSON PINCHOT) and Larry (MARK LINN-BAKER), have become best friends and are beginning to succeed in work and life. The ever-practical Larry gives Balki a lesson in economic reality after Balki is tempted to buy a lottery ticket. But when the winning numbers are announced, Larry is shocked. After Larry completes an assertiveness-training course, he hopes to convince Balki that the meek do not succeed. But Larry's plan to help Balki get the pay raise he deserves backfires.