Review of What's Up, Doc? (1972) by Patrick G — 17 Mar 2009

Let's get several things about this slapstick clear...this is arguably one of the best written, put-together with an all-star cast, never a dull moment movies that ever came out of the tepid early 1970s.

Streisand, as Judy Maxwell, was at the top of her game, sultry, seductive, well-tanned (the bubble bath should prove that) and unbelievably dry-wit Yiddish...plus her singing was at a minimum, leaving room for more jokes.

Ryan O'Neal, as the bumbling music doctor Howard Bannister, showed everyone he had a funny bone after such a depressing breakout in 'Love Story' two years earlier (there is even an in-joke at the end of the film.

..watch for it!). This also proved to be a boon for Kenneth Mars as the narcisstic Hugh Simon, Austin Pendleton as dim but well-meaning host Fredrick Larabee and Madeline Kahn in her big-screen debut as Howard's neurotic fiance, Eunice Burns.

Also look for cameos from Randy Quaid, John Hillerman, Mabel Albertson (in her final role), 'Blazing Saddles' standout Liam Dunn, 'Boss Hogg' Sorrell Booke and...ha ha oh dear...a Chinese dragon.