The great writing talent of Neil Simon, has little doubt achieved a stunning success. There are many shinning examples of his genius and this is one case in point. The film is called " California Suite " and has an impressive cast to make the movie work. Four couples from across the country arrive at this sunny resort for various reasons. First off are Mr. and Mrs Warren (Alan Alda and Jane Fonda) who arrive at the famous hotel to discuss their teen-age daughter and her decision to either return to New York or stay with her father in California. Although adult in their decision making, they nevertheless duel childishly with words over their different approaches. From across the Atlantic ocean arrive Mr. & Mrs Sidney Cochran (Michael Caine & Maggie Smith). He is there to give support to his wife, despite her misgivings about a nominated award. Walter Matthau stars as Marvin Michaels, from Philadelphia who's sex crazed brother (Harry Michaels) has set him up with a high priced hooker, prior to his wife's arrival. Finally there's Chauncey Gump (Richard Prior) and Willis Panama (Bill Cosby), two Dr.'s and their wives who arrive from Chicago and immediately start bickering over accommodations. Alda and Fonda are great as former married partners. Neil Simon gave them extremely good lines of dialog and it makes for a firm Tatate conversation. From Simon also came the rapid rapier exchange between Maggi Smith and Michael Caine. The playwright also created a superb character in Walter Mattau as he portrays a helpless husband, before his accusing wife. It is with laughter that Prior and Cosby are able to create such antics as to leave the hotel with a promise of revenge on their in-laws. As a result, the movie is as entertaining as a gifted playwright and superb actors can make it. A Classic result is the by-product for all audiences. ****
Review of California Suite
California Suite
(1978)
" For a smart woman, in a Man's world, I'm not doing too bad "
12 August 2010