Review of Barefoot in the Park (1967) by Monsieur R — 31 Dec 2010

Synopsis: Neil Simon's comedy features Redford as a conservative young lawyer and Fonda as his spontaneous bride, roughing it in New York. This was director Gene Saks' debut. Academy Award Nominations: Best Supporting Actress--Mildred Natwick.---RT.

Redford was just beginning a career in film with this lead role. The couple set up house in Manhatten. Good to watch at least once to see one of the better films in 1967.

A lot of comedy in this classic tale of newly weds. Fast paced, the couple succeed in finding a 75 dollar apartment on the 5th floor (6th if you count the street porch). Well, not the couple, as we don't really see the discovery of the apartment from hell that the new wife found.

A hole in the roof is the center of action for this entire play made into a movie. Charles Boyer is fantastic as a neighboring bachelor that first attacks the newly wed Jane Fonda, then is given a blind date with the mother of Jane.

The humor is non-stop through this misfortunate romp through early marriage. Not uproarious laughter, just chuckles and giggles. Anyone that remembers their first encounter with a marriage on next to no money will identify with this couple in New York city.

Redford does his acting like no other time to be repeated in his career. Jane Fonda should have won a best actress Oscar for her wild, spontaneous self. Hence the title, Barefoot in the Park. Something she wishes her new husband could be.... spontaneous and free spirit.

Without giving away the ending, lets just say watch it. And it can be watched more than once over time. Pretty good stuff and sooooo typical of film making in the sixties.

Directed by Gene Saks.

Produced by Hal B. Wallis.

Written by Neil Simon.

Starring.

Robert Redford.

Jane Fonda.

Music by Neal Hefti.

Cinematography Joseph LaShelle.

Editing by William A. Lyon.

Distributed by Paramount Pictures.

Release date(s) May 25, 1967 (1967-05-25).

Running time 106 minutes.

Country United States.

Language English.

Budget $2 million.

Gross revenue $19,994,515.