The Last Married Couple in America

The Last Married Couple in America is an engaging 1980 comedy film which offers an amusing look at matrimonial values in a rapidly changing society. This iconic production features George Segal, Natalie Wood, and Richard Benjamin in leading roles, together with a strong supporting cast that brings depth and complexity to the narrative.

The storyline is centered on Jeff and Mari Thompson, played by George Segal and Natalie Wood respectively, who are the last couple of their group of friends to remain wedded. Despite the surrounding societal changes, the duo strives to maintain their family values and weather the storms that challenge conventional domestic life, thereby setting an interesting stage for this dramatic comedy which delves into the unchartered waters of marriage in the late 20th century.

Jeff is a tax attorney who is going through a mid-life crisis. He is seen grumbling about the monotony of his life and yearning for something more exciting. His wife Mari, on the other hand, is a happy-go-lucky woman who is satisfied with her life and loves her husband dearly.

Their peace is disrupted when they discover all their friends are getting divorced for trivial reasons such as boredom and the allure of new sexual partners. Jeff and Mari find themselves in the midst of an epidemic of divorces and extra-marital affairs. Amidst this, the idea of fidelity and sticking to the promises made during their wedding seems to be tested increasingly in a society where divorce is becoming the norm.

As they navigate through these testing times, the couple becomes the subject of scrutiny while trying to deal with their individual temptations and marital issues. The humor is underlined by the tension between the couple's commitment to each other and the lure of following their friends into the era of free love and open marriage. It’s this unconventional tale that makes The Last Married Couple in America a unique production worth watching.

Distinguished actor George Segal splendidly portrays the role of Jeff Thompson, providing impeccable comic timing and infusing life into the character. He transcends the written script to bring out the best of his role and genuinely resonates with the audience.

Golden Globe award-winning actress Natalie Wood plays her part equally well as Mari, bringing charm and warmth to the Thompson household. She flawlessly portrays her character's mixed feelings of confusion, disappointment, and optimism amid her rapidly changing social environment.

The chemistry between Segal and Wood is captivating, rendering authenticity to their on-screen marital bond. The couple’s interactions, dilemmas, and emotional swings are impressively enacted, keeping the viewers engaged throughout the movie.

Richard Benjamin contributes commendably as Marv Cooper, a friend of the couple who has recently undergone a divorce and is exploring newfound freedom in a hilarious manner. His performance adds another layer of comedy to the film and provides the audience with laughter-filled moments.

Directed by Gilbert Cates, The Last Married Couple in America effectively creates a balance of poignant drama and light-hearted comedy. The movie endeavors to provoke thought about the sanctity of marriage while simultaneously exploring the different avenues of happiness and individual freedom.

The Last Married Couple in America does an admirable job of presenting an entertaining snapshot of the late 1970s - early 80s through an appealing mix of satire, humor, drama, and romance. It is not just a movie; it’s also a commentary on the changing American societal norms and values of marriage during that era.

Whether it's the nostalgia-propelling setting, the humorous punchlines, the quality acting, or the memorable scenes, this movie ensures a good time for those seeking an entertaining, yet thoughtful film experience.