A Perfect Couple

A Perfect Couple is a classic film from 1979 written and directed by the influential American filmmaker, Robert Altman. The film features Paul Dooley and Marta Heflin in the lead roles, supported by the talented Titos Vandis. Altman’s filmography is known for its witty dialogue, layered storytelling and heavily ensemble-based casts, and A Perfect Couple captures these elements of his cinematic style.

The movie unfolds in an unusual romantic comedy genre. Paul Dooley plays Alex Theodopoulos, a middle-aged, Greek-American man tied down by his traditional family. He's introduced as a non-gregarious character who has become something of a misfit in his father's (Titos Vandis) cherished Greek traditions and values. Alex is quite the loner; he lives with his odd, eccentric family, and their collective quirks amplify his own.

Marta Heflin captivates audiences with her portrayal of the young and lively Sheila Shea, a member of a rock band, "Keepin' 'Em Off the Streets". Unlike her counterpart Alex, Sheila lives in a loft with her fellow band members, reveling in the energy of youth and camaraderie, surrounded by music and mayhem. Her life is in stark contrast to Alex’s, packed with boisterous bandmates, creative chaos, and a sense of uninhibited liberty.

With the convergence of two inherently different lifestyles, the film's premise is built, resulting in a distinct flavor compared to other conventional romantic narratives. The story is catalyzed when Alex and Sheila meet through a computer dating service. Their introduction brings a sense of whimsical humour, as the audience wonders how these two disparate characters could be defined as a ’perfect couple’.

Over the course of the film, Alex and Sheila wind up spending time together, unfolding the budding relationship in a raw and enthralling way that's typical of Altman’s realistic depictions. In their attempts to navigate their differences, their relationship implicitly signifies a bridging of two very different worlds - the old and the new, the conservative and the liberal, and the difference between isolation and shared communal living.

The twists and turns in the narrative of A Perfect Couple, whilst they detail the usual ups and downs of a relationship, also transcend the ordinary by featuring scenes where the couple interacts with their polar opposite social circumstances. These situations abound with chortle-some moments along with pensive ones which allow the characters to introspect about their relationship and their own identities.

Humorous and romantic in its own unconventional way, the film becomes more than your typical romantic-comedy. It is a commentary on society, culture, generation gaps, apart from being the beautiful, quirky little love story that it primarily is. It’s a genuine, authentic narrative that explores the meaning of love, companionship, and the face of modern relationships, encompassing the quirks and eccentricities that make people unique.

Paul Dooley performs his role remarkably well, giving the audience a character who is relatable and humane in his struggle to find love amidst his family idiosyncrasies. Similar praise can be extended to Marta Heflin as her exuberant personality blends seamlessly with the character of Sheila, showcasing a vibrant woman navigating her way through life and love with buoyant optimism.

The supporting cast, including Teddy Wilson, Allan F. Nicholls, and Ann Ryerson, are considerably noteworthy, effortlessly maintaining the comedic undertone, while contributing to the movie's realistic depiction of the distinct clash of cultures and generations.

The essential background score of the film is provided by Allan Nicholls' band "Keepin' 'Em Off the Streets", authentically elevating the atmosphere, encapsulating the liveliness and uncertainty of the time, and contributing a pivotal element to the film’s overall charm.

A Perfect Couple ensures a delightful viewing experience for those who appreciate unconventional romances and enjoy rich, layered storytelling. The film remains a testament to Robert Altman's ability to gather a bouquet of characters, each with their distinctively curious nature, and weave them together to tell a story that strikes a chord with audiences — a tale of two starkly different people, who, despite their seemingly mismatched backgrounds and lifestyles, come together in a union which might — in its own peculiar way — be perfect.