The Grass Is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank
The Grass Is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank

The Grass Is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank

1978Movie98 minEnglish

A comedy-drama about a New York couple who decides to dump the hassle of the big city, pack up the kids and move to what they think is the easy life of suburbia.

Read Reviews

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Richard MichaelsGenres: Drama, Comedy, Family

Plot Summary

A suburban housewife and mother finds herself increasingly frustrated with the superficiality and pressures of maintaining a perfect image within her affluent community. When her husband's career takes a downturn, she must confront her own insecurities and redefine her priorities amidst the seemingly idyllic facade of suburban life. The story explores themes of marital strain, societal expectations, and the search for authenticity.

Critical Reception

The film received mixed reviews, with critics often praising Elizabeth Montgomery's performance but finding the plot to be somewhat predictable and cliché. Audiences, however, responded more positively to its relatable themes of suburban discontent and marital challenges, making it a moderate success upon release.

What Reviewers Say

  • Elizabeth Montgomery delivers a strong, relatable performance as a woman struggling with suburban expectations.
  • The film touches on familiar themes of marital discord and the pressure to maintain appearances.
  • While the plot offers few surprises, its earnest portrayal of domestic struggles resonates with viewers.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's honest depiction of the challenges faced by housewives in the late 1970s, with many appreciating the humor and emotional depth.

Fun Fact

The film is based on the best-selling 1976 novel of the same name by Erma Bombeck, a renowned humorist known for her observations on suburban life.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review