Beyond Therapy

Beyond Therapy is a 1987 comedy film directed by Robert Altman, featuring the talents of Julie Hagerty, Jeff Goldblum, Glenda Jackson, and a host of other respected performers. Adapted from the play by Christopher Durang, the narrative forms a convoluted maze of tangled relationships, missed connections, and desperate measures for love against the backdrop of New York City, sprinkled generously with a generous portion of zany, absurdist humor.

Jeff Goldblum, known for his iconic roles in various Hollywood classics, plays Bruce, an eccentric and somewhat ditsy magazine publisher who is seeking a partner. Julie Hagerty, another accomplished actress best known for her comedic roles, plays Prudence, a writer for the personal ads in a city paper who is equally desperate to escape the cycle of being single. Both characters are quirky and slightly off-center, providing ample comedic material.

Bruce and Prudence meet for the first time through a personal advertisement but their initial encounter is surprisingly chaotic. They find themselves trapped in a restaurant where the waiter is more interested in studying to be a therapist than actually providing service. This hilarious first encounter lays the groundwork for the ensuing series of comedic misadventures that form the core of Beyond Therapy.

The narrative is driven by Bruce and Prudence's individual relationships with their therapists. Glenda Jackson plays the role of Charlotte, Bruce’s therapist, who cackles rather than chuckles and gives advice that seems to come from her own whimsical alternate reality. She encourages Bruce to pursue a bisexual lifestyle, blurring professional and personal boundaries in ways that are simultaneously ridiculous and discomforting.

On the other hand, Prudence’s therapist Dr. Framingham, played by Tom Conti, is the embodiment of what a therapist shouldn’t be, offering kooky advice that is more about fueling his own inflated ego than helping his patient. His engagements with both Prudence and later Bruce add another layer to the comedy, taking the movie into farcical realms.

A significant part of the humor involves the therapists themselves seeking therapy. As the plot develops, it becomes evident that both therapists are more disturbed than their patients, engaging in absurd behavior and therapy methods that challenge the viewers’ understanding of the conventional therapist-patient dynamic.

Aside from the main characters, the supporting cast plays a pivotal role in characterizing the zany world that the plot operates in. Christopher Guest stars as Bob, Bruce’s scorned lover who provides additional depth to the chaotic narrative. Meanwhile, Genevieve Page as Zizi, the restaurant owner, and other minor characters provide glimmers of sanity in a world that consistently flirts with the absurd.

Echoing elements of Altman's brand of humor, the dialogue in Beyond Therapy is punctuated by over-the-top, saucy humor and sharp repartees, a lot of which is derived from one-liner gags and slapstick comedy that revolve around the theme of psychoanalysis.

Beyond Therapy is a darkly humorous, unconventional comedy that breaks down institutional norms in favor of anarchy. It takes a satirical shot at the world of psychoanalysis and the role of therapists. The humor in the film stems from both its unique plot and the characteristically peculiar personalities of the characters.

Set in New York City, the cinematographic canvas of Beyond Therapy is as vibrant and eccentric as its characters. Cinematographer Pierre Mignot does an excellent job of capturing the unpredictability and chaos of the narrative, adding an element of visual comedy to the mix.

In conclusion, Beyond Therapy is not a run-of-the-mill comedy. It's an intentionally messy pandemonium of a film, taking a humorous swing at the absurdities of modern relationships and the mirage-like world of psychotherapy. Its ensemble of fascinating characters and a style that is unique to Altman, makes this one of the most interesting adaptations of a successful stage-play to screen. While the film may seem absurd and surreal, it remains grounded in its portrayal of human relationships and emotions. The performances from the main characters are commendable, adding an extra layer of hilarity to this twisted comedy. For those who enjoy their comedy with a touch of the bizarre, Beyond Therapy is a definite must-watch.