Review of Harold and Maude (1971) by Josh M — 23 Feb 2009
A second viewing made me more attuned to the flaws of this than on my first watch, but I still like it a good deal. There's no doubt that Maude is a bit of a Manic Pixie Dream Girl, but the combination of her age and a quick glimpse at her arm add depth to her character, much in the same way that hints about Harold's father add depth to his.
Unlike Anderson's work, the characters don't really bring enough of that depth to the table, and they end up remaining more flat than they really should. The film still works, though, coasting on the odd chemistry between the two, their entertaining performances, and the film's gleeful sense of absurd humor.
I don't like it as much as the work it inspired, but there's a lot to enjoy here, and some wonderful scenes, even as its flaws become more evident.
This review of Harold and Maude (1971) was written by Josh M on 23 Feb 2009.
Harold and Maude has generally received very positive reviews.
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