Any Wednesday

Set against the unmistakably metropolitan backdrop of New York City in the mid-60s, Any Wednesday is a romantic comedy film brimming with wit, charm, and twists that would keep you on the edge of your seat. Launched in 1966, it features the acting prowess of Jane Fonda, Jason Robards, and Dean Jones.

Based on the play of the same name by Muriel Resnik, the film investigates the relationships, follies, and moral dilemmas of its lead characters, painting a picture that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. It's directed by Robert Ellis Miller whose genius behind the camera ensures that every frame of the film tantalizes with the themes and vibes of the era, creating a nostalgic experience for those who look back at the past with a fond eye.

The narrative revolves around Ellen Gordon, played by the exquisite Jane Fonda. She’s an attractive and intelligent young woman with a knack for making people swoon over her enchanting simplicity. Fonda's performance radiates a sensual charm and wide-eyed innocence that perfectly caption the uncomplicated yet intriguing character that is Ellen Gordon.

Jason Robards steps into the shoes of the wealthy businessman, John Cleves, whose persona oscillates between the sophisticated charm of the elite and the moral ambiguity of a philanderer. He treats the facets of John's character with dexterity, portraying the quintessential man of power with aplomb and adding impressive nuances of vulnerability and guilt.

Caught in the entanglement of an extramarital affair with John, Ellen’s life takes an amusing turn when the reverberations of their secret liaison start to unsettle their individual existences. She’s dubbed as Mrs. John Cleves every Wednesday, spinning a web of lies and misunderstandings, but little does she know that this façade is just the beginning of a whirlwind of change that will soon engulf her.

Dean Jones interprets the well-intentioned, 'aw-shucks' out-of-towner, Cass Henderson, with a warm, heartfelt comedic timing. He is a corporate stooge, sent to New York by the unnamed company's supposedly moralist Midwest bosses to moralize the city operation. His arrival unexpectedly complicates the dynamics between Ellen and John, leading to a series of witty exchanges and humorous scenarios.

The story takes amusing detours and introduces a scrumptious slice of humble pie into the lives of John Cleves and Ellen Gordon, who until then, seemed content in their farcical setup. It draws attention to their evolving predicaments, the inescapable moral quandary, and the consequent epiphanies, all of which are laced with light humor and romantic allusions.

The subtle and delicate exploration of romance in the film doesn't shy away from addressing themes of infidelity and deceit. But it skillfully keeps the atmosphere light-hearted and the viewer engaged, crafting a narrative that is more reflective of human follies and less preachy.

The background score is another facet of the film that warrants a mention. Its lively and jaunty tunes, composed by George Duning, set the perfect tone for the narrative and the era it aims to project. The cinematography captures the heart and soul of New York City, accentuating the narrative's charm with its beautiful exploration of the cityscape.

From time to time, the audience is treated to a bit of slapstick humor, achievable through the masterful direction and performances. The film gracefully handles moments of farce, ultimately maintaining the balance between comedy and drama.

Any Wednesday is not just a movie but a captivating peek into the socio-cultural fabric of the 60s, blended smoothly with elements of humor, romance, and moral dilemmas. It's a charming trip down memory lane for some, while for others, it's a tasteful presentation of times they never experienced. It's no wonder that despite the many years, it continues to delight viewers with its timeless appeal.