An Unmarried Woman
An Unmarried Woman

Movie spotlight

An Unmarried Woman

1978
Movie
124 min
English

A wealthy woman from Manhattan's Upper East Side struggles to deal with her new identity and her sexuality after her husband of 16 years leaves her for a younger woman.

Insights

IMDb6.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes93%
Metacritic77/100
Google Users84%
Director: Paul MazurskyGenres: Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

Erica Benton, a successful art gallery assistant, believes she has a perfect marriage until her husband announces he is leaving her for his younger mistress. Suddenly finding herself alone and navigating the complexities of single life in New York City, Erica grapples with heartbreak, newfound independence, and the challenges of dating again. She finds unexpected solace and a new romantic connection with a bohemian artist, forcing her to redefine her identity and her understanding of love and self-reliance.

Critical Reception

An Unmarried Woman was a critical and commercial success, praised for its honest portrayal of a woman's journey through divorce and her path to self-discovery. Jill Clayburgh's performance was widely lauded, earning her an Academy Award nomination. The film resonated with audiences for its frank depiction of female independence and modern relationships.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its realistic and sensitive depiction of a woman's liberation.

  • Jill Clayburgh delivers a powerful and nuanced performance at the heart of the film.

  • The film is celebrated for its honest exploration of modern relationships and female independence.

Google audience: Audiences appreciated the film's relatable story about a woman finding her way after divorce, highlighting its honest portrayal of emotions and the journey toward self-discovery. Many found Jill Clayburgh's performance compelling and the film's themes of independence empowering.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Academy Award for Best Actress (Jill Clayburgh), Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Drama (Jill Clayburgh).

Fun Fact

Paul Mazursky initially conceived the film as a vehicle for Barbra Streisand, but she declined the role, which then went to Jill Clayburgh.

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