Better Late Then Never
... View MoreThere are better movies of two hours length. I loved the actress'performance.
... View MoreI am only giving this movie a 1 for the great cast, though I can't imagine what any of them were thinking. This movie was horrible
... View MoreThe film may be flawed, but its message is not.
... View MoreThis is certainly one of Robert Redford's most animated acting roles which helped propel him to the A-list of 'movie stars.' Based on the Neil Simon hit Broadway play which Redford starred during its initial 1963-1964 theatre season and why he received star billing in the movie version over Jane Fonda who was a bigger box office draw at the time.BAREFOOT IN THE PARK represents one of the last sparkling celluloid moments of the sophisticated yet frothy screwball comedies which began in the 1930's through visionary directors like Howard Hawks and Leo McCarey. Director Gene Saks, together with Neil Simon's timeless screen treatment, quite seamlessly place their skills in motion here to reproduce the spirit of fun and mirth to the time worn plot of two newlyweds venturing forth on the rocky road of matrimony.The on screen antics between Redford, portraying a young, stuffy lawyer on his way up (that's five flights of stairs up, not counting the outside stoop to that sparse, tiny apartment) and Miss Fonda as a carefree spirit can best be described by her flustered comment to her new hubby; "Here I am trying to get you all hot and bothered and you're summing up for the jury."The wit and parry between Redford and Fonda parlayed through Neil Simon's sparkling dialogue makes for competitive verbal sparring which moves this contemporary classic along at a sprightly place. In fact, Redford's role here as a fastidious, button down attorney (right down to the functional topcoat and scarf) in this movie was so effective, he was almost turned down for the role of "Sundance'' in that certain other 'western' flick.Bolstered by a stellar supporting cast, perpetual screen romantic Charles Boyer adds neighborly spice to the proceedings. Mildred Natwick, fresh from the Broadway run, is delightful as the endearing mother-in-law and Herb Edelman, also recreating his stage role as a telephone line installer, has the best exit line. Neil Hefti's score provides a light, breezy musical quilt to snuggle up to.With New York City's Washington Square Park and the stately Plaza Hotel served as a relaxing backdrop, BAREFOOT IN THE PARK is just a Hansom Cab away.
... View Moreit is the right word for a film who remains fresh decade by decade. for the story, off course. but, in special, for performances. or for the genius of Gene Saks to give the chance to the Neal Simon theater play to become a gem. sure, nothing surprising if you do not ignore than each actor does his the best , using, in smart way, old clichés for transforms the characters in seductive fireworks. Charles Boyer is the same from many other comedies but in this adaptation he could be defined as unique.Mildred Natwick has a great job and she is the good example for a small secret for the force of seduction of this film - the partner. Jane Fonda and Robert Redfort, Mildred Natwick and Charls Boyer are extraordinary for the science to build the roles as an embroidery made together. sure, this recipes is the base for each good performance. but in this case it is so obvious and seductive than it is honest to not ignore it.
... View MoreThere are no prettier people in all of show business than Robert Redford and Jane Fonda. For God's sake, they are in their seventies and they still put it out there. They were at the height of their splendor when this Neil Simon comedy was made. Redford plays the dull, committed young lawyer, whose life is directed toward his work. Jane is the anything-goes free spirit who wants adventure. Both are a bit hard to take. Everyone loves the Jane character until you've been around one too long. Sometimes we would like to have people hold it back a bit. The couple has a very romantic honeymoon and then move into an ancient New York apartment. It's on the fifth floor with no elevator, and much of the comedy comes from the enormous trek just to get upstairs. Simon throws in a group of quirky neighbors who start to teach the young couple how life really is.
... View MoreThis film is a cleverly written, wonderfully acted comedy that stands among the funniest I've ever seen. Ever. Though it mostly sticks to convention, partially as a product of its time, Neil Simon's screenplay is a perfect example of how to do comedy well, based on characters and dialogue and not the toilet humor that too often passes for "comedy" nowadays. Robert Redford (reprising his stage role) and Jane Fonda are brilliant as the two lead characters, a newlywed couple who are adjusting to their new life together. The chemistry between them was palpable and very real. Charles Boyer and Mildred Natwick also give fine supporting performances as an interesting neighbor and the bride's mother, respectively. One thing I loved, besides how funny this film was, was the way in which it treated even the smallest of characters. Sure, there could have been more exploration of the many residents in the apartment, but what was in the movie worked well. And, I also liked the economic (and organic) use of physical comedy to complement the nearly nonstop verbal acrobatics. Truly a masterpiece of comedy for the ages, and a heartwarming look at young love.
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