Review of Cactus Flower (1969) by Aidan B — 14 Sep 2010

This sex comedy farce has dated badly but still boasts some laughs thanks to strong central performances from its three leads and the ridiculous situation it sets up.

It is about a middle aged dentist who has pretended to be married in order to avoid making a commitment to his young girlfriend but, when faced with losing her, he decides to get married to the girl after all. Unfortunately he has to deal with his new fiance's pangs of guilt as she begins to worry about the harm she is doing to his wife and children, and so he has to get his nurse assistant (who is in love with him herself) to pretend to be his wife so he can show her that all will be well. Of course, the situation will become more and more complicated as it all plays out.

Matthau was well suited to this sort of ridiculous farce as his wonderfully expressive face reflexes in pain and astonishment at every twist and kink that gets thrown up in the way of his plan. Goldie Hawn works well alongside him as his young love interest, showing strong comic timing and convincing as a character who is keen to keep a clean conscience through everything.

It is Ingrid Bergman though whose character Stephanie provides the heart that kept me engaged throughout the silliness. Having never seen Bergman act in a comedy before I was surprised at just how funny she can be, here cast as a sort of 'straight man' who is drawn into things very much against her will.

As for the material the three are working with, it has not aged well. What was once an edgy sexual comedy now seems remarkably tame and the elements of youth culture (the record shop and nightclub) only make the action seem more dated.

Still, while lines and settings have become flatter and less salacious with age, the film retains its easy charm thanks to its three leads. Its more fun than funny, but diverting enough to be worth adding to your Netflix queue.