Meek aspiring screenwriter Edward Foster (an affable portrayal by Andrew McCarthy) develops a massive crush on lovely, but bitchy struggling actress Miranda Singer (perfectly embodied by the gorgeously buxom and leggy Mariel Hemingway) who lives in the same Hollywood apartment with him. The creepy landlord Mr. Stronham (veteran actor David Hemmings making the most out of a juicy role) gives Edward a love potion that winds up working a bit too well. Director Tim Mankiewicz relates the enjoyable story at a steady pace and brings a certain sweet lighthearted charm to this episode. Moreover, the humor gets bawdier and funnier as the plot unfolds and culminates in a deliciously ironic conclusion with Edward being forced to put up with a facially disfigured Miranda for all eternity in the afterlife. The absorbing script by Mankiewicz and Joe Minion makes a neat central message about how sometimes the worst thing you can get in life is exactly what you want (Miranda soon becomes an irritating pest as she lusts after Edward 24/7). The always delightful Kathleen Freeman has an amusing supporting role as cheery elderly tenant Mrs. Parker. Acclaimed singer/songwriter Jimmy Webb supplies a richly melodic and romantic score. Robert Draper's bright cinematography gives this episode a pleasing sunny look. As a yummy added bonus, Ms. Hemingway bares one of her exquisitely ample breasts. An absolute hoot.
Review of Loved to Death
