Divorce American Style

The film satirizes the burgeoning trend of 'no-fault' divorce in America during the 1960s. Brad and Barbara Newman, a seemingly happy suburban couple, decide to divorce after realizing their marriage has become stagnant. However, their amicable separation quickly devolves into a viciously comedic battle over assets and alimony, highlighting the absurdities and financial pitfalls of the divorce process.

Divorce American Style was met with mixed to positive reviews, praised for its sharp satire and comedic performances, though some critics found its humor occasionally too cynical or dated. It resonated with audiences who were experiencing or observing the changing attitudes towards marriage and divorce in the era.

• Praised for its biting satire on contemporary marital and legal practices.
• The comedic performances, particularly from Dick Van Dyke and Debbie Reynolds, were often highlighted.
• Some reviews noted a tendency towards cynicism that, for some, detracted from the humor.

Google audience: Audience reception information from Google is not readily available for this film.

The film's screenplay was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, but it lost to William Rose for 'Guess Who's Coming to Dinner'.