Single Bars, Single Women

Single Bars, Single Women is a captivating 1984 film that remarkably captures the essence of the single life in the 1980s through a combination of humor, tender moments, thought-provoking conversations, and social commentary that feels just as relevant today as it did at the time of its release.

The film, which features Tony Danza, Paul Michael Glaser, and Keith Gordon, offers a terrific ensemble cast that delivers a fun and enlightening perspective on the ups and downs of single life in pursuit of love and companionship.

Tony Danza, famous for his roles in hit series like "Who's the Boss?" and "Taxi", brings his signature blue-collar charm to his role in this film. His character, an everyday handyman, finds himself navigating the intricate maze of romance and courtship in the crowded bars of New York City. Danza embodies vulnerability with a strong comedic edge, offering a bold and relatable portrayal of the fears and insecurities synonymous with the world of dating.

As one of the stars of the popular police drama "Starsky and Hutch", Paul Michael Glaser brings a sense of rugged intrigue to his role. His character, a charming and confident ladies' man, presents a stark contrast to Danza's character as he seemingly glides through the dating world with an array of potential romantic interests. However, the film also unravels the complications and disillusionment that often tarnish the shiny facade of such a lifestyle. The juxtaposition of Danza and Glaser's characters offers viewers a light-hearted exploration of the disparate experiences individuals can have when traversing the dating scene.

Meanwhile, the talented Keith Gordon, known for his performance in films like "Dressed to Kill" and "Back to School", portrays a young, shy introvert trying to break out of his shell and join the exciting, yet daunting world of singles. Gordon brilliantly illuminates the emotional rollercoaster experienced by those new to the dating game – the fear, the hope, and the heartbreak, all wrapped up in mesmerizing storytelling.

"Single Bars, Single Women" takes place in the heart of New York City, a bustling metropolis that also plays a central character in the film. The city's bars, where the bulk of the action occurs, are a microcosm encapsulating the humor, charm, and brutal honesty that characterizes this unique dating universe. These settings effectively reflect the vibrancy, uncertainty, and simplistic complexity associated with the single life, serving as the ideal backdrop for our characters' journeys.

The film’s script, written by Israel Horovitz, narrates the story through humorous yet poignant vignettes of individual characters’ experiences. The narrative flows smoothly, blending episodic elements adeptly. The dialogue is smart, witty, and often loaded with unexpected wisdom, casual profundities uttered over bar counters, and in dimly lit corners. It reveals the fragility of dreams, hopelessness, determination, and the tenacity of the single urban dwellers searching for love and meaningful connections. It offers diverse perspectives, featuring characters from varying backgrounds and lifestyles, reminding us that every individual is unique in their experiences and aspirations.

The direction provided by Harry Winer weaves these tales seamlessly, managing to make each narrative stand out while also maintaining the overall cohesive flow of the film. He brings out stellar performances from the star-studded ensemble cast and elicits genuine and relatable reactions from them. The cinematography and music choices are also worth noting, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that effectively encapsulates the 1980s vibe.

"Single Bars, Single Women" is rich with characters that are convincingly drawn, endearing, and amusing. True to its era, this film authentically paints the struggles of being single, where every rendezvous might lead to heartbreak or the start of a potential love story.

This movie may be viewed as a cult classic comedy-drama, but it resonates with universal themes about human relationships and the eternal quest for love and happiness that strikes a chord with anyone who's ever been single. It serves as a humorous and heartwarming stage for the timeless dance of dating, courtship, and love, and a nostalgic trip down memory lane for those who experienced the unique charm of the 1980s dating scene. "Single Bars, Single Women" is definitely a must-watch if you're a fan of any of these stars or if you enjoy storytelling that is honest, humorous, and heartfelt.