Happy Birthday, Wanda June

The 1971 film "Happy Birthday, Wanda June" is a captivating mixture of drama, satire, and dark comedy. The film, directed by Mark Robson, is an offbeat production adapted from a play by the critically acclaimed author, Kurt Vonnegut. Front and center in this production is the celebrated actor Rod Steiger who delivers a robust and magnetic performance.

Steiger plays Harold Ryan, a highly exaggerated stereotype of masculine bravado. Ryan is a world-renowned big game hunter, a fearless war veteran, and an arrogant adventurer who mysteriously disappeared in the Amazon eight years prior. The movie begins with Ryan unexpectedly returning home, much to the surprise of his wife, Penelope, portrayed by the talented Susannah York. During Harold's absence, Penelope had tried to move on, believing Harold to be dead, and in that time, she became romantically involved with two men, pacifist Dr. Norbert Woodly played by George Grizzard and vacuum cleaner salesman Herb Shuttle, played by Don Murray.

Presumed dead, and in some ways a relic of a past era, Harold's return sends emotional shockwaves through the household which unsettle the seemingly peaceful domesticity. Penelope has grown used to independent living without Harold's domineering presence, and his return disturbs her newfound equilibrium. Steiger's character still clings to outdated ideals of masculinity and expects to reclaim his former status in the household upon his return, oblivious to how much has changed during his absence.

The script by Vonnegut remains faithful to his original play, "Happy Birthday, Wanda June". As a playwright, Vonnegut always manages to imbue palpable affection for his characters into his work, regardless of their moral or ethical shortcomings. This affection translates into empathy that the audience can’t help but extend to each character, even as they engage in a powerful clash of values and navigate their tumultuous dynamic.

Penelope's suitors, the vacuum cleaner salesman and the pacifist doctor, offer a stark contrast to Harold's machismo and both are compelling characters. The intersection of their lives provides a unique drama and comedy that challenge societal perceptions of masculinity. Vonnegut has the uncanny ability to extract comedy out of inherently tragic or severe situations, and "Happy Birthday, Wanda June" is no exception.

The movie also ventures into the peculiar and surreal. Among the film's ensemble is a small girl, Wanda June, who narrates a part of the story from her posthumous perspective, offering a surreal twist to the narrative. Another intriguing character is loose cannon Col. Looseleaf Harper, played by William Hickey, who remains haunted by his action of dropping the bomb on Nagasaki. These Zany characters and the surreal elements of the narrative transform the film from a straightforward satire into a layered, philosophical piece of cinema.

"Happy Birthday, Wanda June" takes a deep, satirical dive into societal concepts of masculinity and heroism, examining the cost of war on individuals and society at large. In parallel, there’s also a very vivid critique of domestic sexism, which makes the story highly relevant even half a century after its creation.

The movie is also commendable for its well-constructed dialogues and is further bolstered by an incredible cast who deftly bring these characters to life. While it may seem chapfallen and a tad bizarre in places, the film is nevertheless engaging, thereby bearing the distinct signature of Vonnegut's style.

Steiger's compelling portrayal of Harold, the strong layered performances by York, Grizzard, and Hickey, together with Robson’s sharp direction, makes 'Happy Birthday, Wanda June' a must-watch for fans of Vonnegut, and those who enjoy a film laced with a heady brew of drama, dark comedy, and satire.

Overall, "Happy Birthday, Wanda June" is an offbeat, philosophical exploration into contradictory human natures, the illusions of heroism, and a potent satire of societal conventions. It provides a blend of satirical comedy, poignant drama, and philosophical contemplation that's spearheaded by an exceptional team of actors. Despite its seemingly absurd narrative and quirky characters, the film holds within it deep insights on the human condition and is a thought-provoking cinematic piece.