Only with Married Men

Only with Married Men is a 1974 American made-for-television romantic comedy film. Directed by Jerry Paris, who was well-known for directing episodes of 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' and 'Happy Days', this movie promises exciting ventures into the romantic world. The film features a stellar cast owning their respective roles, with David Birney playing the lead male character, and Michele Lee and John Astin starring in supporting roles.

David Birney takes on the role of David, an ambitious and thriving advertising professional. He is a charismatic individual whose successful career is paralleled with a dynamic personal life, where he is seen balancing multiple relationships. Birney's suave persona and the ability to switch seamlessly between intense and light-hearted scenes makes him a captivating presence throughout the film.

Michele Lee is seen portraying Jill, a charming and energetic travel agency worker. She’s stumbled upon a theory that the key for a woman to avoid heartbreak is ‘Only with Married Men’. This way, she tells herself she won't get too emotionally attached, they wouldn't leave their wives, and getting romantically involved wouldn't have long-term consequences. Her portrayal of Jill is both amusing and poignant, as she juggles between maintaining her radical belief and experiencing the subtle waves of love.

John Astin's role as Harry, the friendly and reliable friend of David, adds another layer to the narrative. He provides a moral compass and offers insightful advice, although humorous, to his friend, and acts as a sounding board for his dilemmas. Astin has done a commendable task in creating a well-rounded and engaging character.

Set against the backdrop of bustling New York city life, the storyline revolves around these characters' lives navigating love, relationships, and their personal beliefs. David and Jill's paths cross, and their connection is instantly palpable, but the complexity and real-world consequences of their actions provide underlying tension and emotional intensity. Their chemistry forms the anchoring point of the film, setting the tone for a series of engagements that define their relationship.

Only with Married Men employs a lot of traditional romantic comedy tropes to enact its narrative's chase, struggle, and romance against all odds. There's a constant game of cat and mouse that unfolds between David and Jill, yet their story doesn't lack depth. It holds a mirror to societies' preconceived notions about love and relationships. Jill's strategy to date only married men reflects the fear many women have of committing to love, and how the fear of abandonment or being cheated on can shape our relationships.

At the same time, David's character represents a man torn between his impersonal relationships and the unexpected intensity of feelings he starts to develop for Jill. His confusion, struggle, and resolve form a compelling subplot. The movie also highlights the constant battle of personal and professional lives mirrored in David's struggle to find balance.

The film possesses light-hearted moments and clever writing that peaks audience’s interest. However, behind the apparent humor and levity lies a serious exploration of how fear, life experiences, and societal norms shape our concept of love. The quintessence of the movie lies in its ability to marry humor with situations that resonate deeply with the audience, creating a viewing experience that is engrossing, relatable, and thought-provoking. It’s a romantic tale embedded with emotional struggles that serves to deliver a poignant interpretation on love and relationships.

In conclusion, Only with Married Men, is indeed a captivating film. It grapples with the ambiguities of love and commitment through a humorous lens, making it a timeless piece in the genre of romantic comedies. It's a delightful blend of humor, romance, and reality-driven drama that offers entertainment alongside thoughtful explorations of human connections. The phenomenal performances by the lead cast combined with strong storytelling make this film a standout work, promising an entertaining and reflective watch for all cinema lovers.