The Marriage of a Young Stockbroker

The Marriage of a Young Stockbroker is a 1971 drama-comedy that is both a charming and thought-provoking picture, focusing on human nature's complexities and the intricacies of relationships. This enduring classic showcases the remarkable performances of Richard Benjamin, Joanna Shimkus, and Elizabeth Ashley, whose exceptional acting carries the film's unconventional narrative, making it quite compelling.

The movie is based on the book by Charles Webb, the author well-regarded for "The Graduate," and directed by Lawrence Turman. The plot centers around the life of the protagonist, William Alren (Richard Benjamin). William is an eccentric young man who makes his living as a successful stockbroker. Still, beneath his solid exterior, he grapples with a quite peculiar issue - he's a voyeur driven by an irrepressible desire to observe people in their most private moments. This quirk becomes a central point driving the plot, providing both comic relief and depth to William’s character.

Richard Benjamin delivers a great performance as the troubled lead. His skillful portrayal of William, whose eccentricities begin to impact his relationship with his wife, is convincing and emotionally resonant. His struggles seem believable, and his performance affords the audience a candid glimpse into the tribulations his character faces.

Joanna Shimkus plays William's wife, Lisa. She is a sophisticated, patient woman who loves her husband but is baffled and distressed by his strange habit of spying on others. Shimkus' performance intelligently balances the conflicting emotions of a supportive yet bewildered wife struggling to understand her husband's odd behavior.

Elizabeth Ashley portrays the character of William's brash sister-in-law, Nan, who disapproves of his voyeuristic habit and believes it is unfairly hurting her sister. Her militant attitude towards William's fixation form the crux of the tension within the narrative. Ashley convincingly brings forth this character's passionate defense for her sister, adding another layer to the story.

The cinematography by Charles Wheeler effectively captures the emotional swings of the film, complementing the narrative's comedic and serious moments. The film's depictions of the era's stock exchange life and suburban domesticity are visually appealing, contributing to its engaging storytelling.

The Marriage of a Young Stockbroker offers reflective insight into the nature of personal neuroses and how they impact our relationships. The key to the film's charm lies in its deft balance of humorous and dramatic moments. William's peculiar gimmicks generate numerous funny scenes, while the escalating tension between him and his wife adds the drama. At its heart, the film investigates the complexities of marriage, exploring how a couple navigates the challenges presented by the spouse's peculiar tendencies and compromises to maintain harmony in the relationship.

Moreover, the film examines societal norms and expectations, with Turman adroitly utilizing wit and drama to underline the voyeur's paradox – while the voyeur observes others, they themselves can become a spectacle for others to observe, especially when their actions breach socially acceptable conventions. Consequently, the film effectively interlays humor and seriousness, creating an engaging experience that keeps viewers hooked.

The Marriage of a Young Stockbroker also sports an unforgettable soundtrack by the famous Michel Legrand. The music underscores particular scenes, enriching the emotional resonance and adding depth to the characters' experiences. Charles Webb's insightful screenplay further complements the stellar performances of the cast, coherent direction, fitting music, and evocative cinematography.

In summary, The Marriage of a Young Stockbroker is a delightful film that uses humor, drama, and the exploration of complex characters to examine married life's unpredictability and challenges. With standout performances from Richard Benjamin, Joanna Shimkus, and Elizabeth Ashley, as well as immersive music, profound scripting, and superb cinematography, this movie is certainly a noteworthy gem from 1971. It remains an engaging watch that invites audiences to contemplate various behavioral aspects and relationship dynamics while offering a good dose of entertainment.