Almost all US sex comedies of the 50's & 60's are dated now by a quaint leering approach to sex & marriage, not to mention the costumes, hair, settings. But the remarriage theme will always be ripe for romantic comedy fun. Here, George Axelrod got his start. He later wrote screenplays for "Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter," "Breakfast At Tiffany's," "Goodbye Charlie," and in a dark mood, "The Manchurian Candidate." His style is comparable to Preston Sturges, using wit to slice through the social conventions. Judy Holliday & Jack Lemmon were a wonderful match. Judy could play an "everywoman" to Jack's "everyman" as in "It Should Happen To You." She could surprise & bedevil him with her mix of ditzines & intelligence. Their comic timing together seems effortlessly perfect. This film should be remembered more fondly.
Reviews
2 Reviews
Swordswallowers and Thin Men
(2003)
Insightful, witty take on undergrads facing life
23 May 2006
Warning: Spoilers
Max Borenstein wrote and directed this fine film that brilliantly captures the moment when a college senior faces the threshold of life after college. Using talented Yale classmates and campus settings, Borenstein evinces a grasp of film idiom, story arc, and style that foretells a brilliant career as screenwriter and director. Respected critic Kevin Thomas recognized its merit and it was entered in L.A. Film Festival. While made by students, the movie far exceeds the category of "student film" in its conception and performances. Like those of a previous generation of student filmmakers - Lucas, Spielberg, Scorcese - Borenstein's first effort shows a maturity beyond his years. The story follows Zak (Peter Cellini) as he learns lessons that no college course can teach. Loyalty to pals - Miles (Graham Norris) and Stanley (Jeffrey K. Miller) and lover Samantha (Zoe Kazan) has its price. As his senior year comes to a close, so his naiveté screeches to a halt as he learns that no good deed goes unpunished and that there is no neat way to move on. Funny and wise, surprising and never dull, you will smile in recognition of the very human characters and enjoy every minute. Some day this film will be a landmark as a start of brilliant careers for writer / director and actors. Now, it stands on its own as a joy.
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