The Goodbye Girl
The Goodbye Girl

Movie spotlight

The Goodbye Girl

1977
Movie
111 min
English

After being dumped by her live-in boyfriend, an unemployed dancer and her 10-year-old daughter are reluctantly forced to live with a struggling off-Broadway actor.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes73%
Metacritic75/100
Google Users84%
Director: Herbert RossGenres: Comedy, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

Paula McFadden, a struggling actress, is abandoned by her husband, who sublets their apartment to an opinionated video game player, Elliot Garfield. Initially hostile, Paula and Elliot develop a grudging respect and an undeniable attraction as they navigate their shared living space and personal struggles. Their relationship blossoms amidst career challenges and the complexities of cohabitation, leading to an unexpected but heartwarming romance.

Critical Reception

The Goodbye Girl was a critical and commercial success, lauded for its sharp writing, witty dialogue, and outstanding performances, particularly from Richard Dreyfuss and Marsha Mason. It resonated with audiences for its relatable portrayal of New Yorkers finding love in unexpected circumstances.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its witty, realistic dialogue and strong comedic timing.

  • Richard Dreyfuss's performance was a standout, earning him significant acclaim.

  • Marsha Mason delivered a compelling and relatable portrayal of a woman on the edge.

Google audience: Audiences loved the chemistry between the leads and the smart, funny script. Many appreciated the realistic depiction of the characters' struggles and the satisfying romantic arc.

Awards & Accolades

Richard Dreyfuss won the Academy Award for Best Actor, making him the first actor to win for a performance in a comedy. Marsha Mason was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress. The film received multiple Golden Globe nominations.

Fun Fact

Neil Simon wrote the screenplay specifically for Marsha Mason, with whom he was married at the time.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review