Barefoot in the Park
In this film based on a Neil Simon play, newlyweds Corie, a free spirit, and Paul Bratter, an uptight lawyer, share a sixth-floor apartment in Greenwich Village. Soon after their marriage, Corie tries to find a companion for mother, Ethel, who is now alone, and sets up Ethel with neighbor Victor. Inappropriate behavior on a double date causes conflict, and the young couple considers divorce.
Insights
Plot Summary
Newlyweds Corie and Paul Bratter move into a tiny, fifth-floor walk-up apartment in a New York brownstone. Their blissful honeymoon is quickly tested by the realities of their cramped living space and the eccentricities of their neighbors, including Corie's matchmaking mother and a quirky downstairs tenant. Paul, a strait-laced lawyer, struggles to adapt to Corie's free-spirited nature and their unconventional lifestyle, leading to humorous misunderstandings and challenges to their marriage.
Critical Reception
Barefoot in the Park was a commercial success and generally well-received by critics, who praised its lighthearted humor, charming performances, and witty script. The film is considered a classic romantic comedy, capturing the essence of Neil Simon's popular Broadway play.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its laugh-out-loud humor and Neil Simon's sharp dialogue.
- The chemistry between Robert Redford and Jane Fonda was a major highlight.
- Mildred Natwick's performance as the mother was particularly acclaimed.
Google audience: Viewers appreciated the film's enduring charm and comedic timing. Many found the characters relatable and the storyline enjoyable, highlighting its status as a feel-good classic.
Fun Fact
The film is an adaptation of Neil Simon's longest-running Broadway play, which ran for 1,530 performances.
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