Review of Taking Off (1971) by Tom S — 11 Jan 2009
A little hidden gem from the early 70s, this was Milos Forman's first American film. Lynn Carlin and Buck Henry are two uptight parents who learn to loosen up after their daughter runs away. The comic timing is great in this droll adventure through the counterculture, punctuated by singers (including Carly Simon and a young Kathy Bates) who lend a sense of freshness and honesty to the experience.
Highlights include the girl sweetly singing the 'fuck' song while playing the lute, and the hilarious scene in which Vincent Schiavelli teaches the fashionable society crowd how to smoke a joint.
Overall, with its humor, music, and spirit, the film impeccably captures the time period. It should be seen on a triple bill with Hair and Swedish Fly Girls.
This review of Taking Off (1971) was written by Tom S on 11 Jan 2009.
Taking Off has generally received very positive reviews.
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