Those Lips Those Eyes

Those Lips Those Eyes is a delightful heart-warming, coming-of-age romance-comedy film released in 1980. Directed by Michael Pressman, the movie stars renowned actors such as the charismatic Frank Langella, the enchanting Glynnis O'Connor, and the vibrant Tom Hulce in the lead roles.

Set in the nostalgic backdrop of the early 1950s, the film encapsulates the essence of a time when summer theatres flourished, captivating versatile audiences with colorful theatrical performances under glittering starlit skies. The movie is enhanced by the stunning scenic beauty of Cleveland, Ohio, adding an irresistible charm to its course.

The plot unravels around the young sightly Artie Shoemaker, brilliantly portrayed by Tom Hulce, who is not interested in joining his father's business. Instead, Artie aspires to work in theatre, and he gets a chance to work at a local, struggling summer theatre as a props guy.

Amid the captivating stage performances, hilarious backstage dramas, and the overall enchanting world of theatre, Artie meets Harry Crystal, the seasoned and charming star of stage performances portrayed to perfection by Frank Langella. Despite the aging star's rain-and-shine career and personal life, there is a seductive allure about Harry, and Artie is riveted by Harry's charismatic personality and stage prowess. The veteran performer becomes a mentor for Artie, opening his eyes to the intriguing world of drama and applause, illuminating his journey, both as a stagehand and an aficionado.

Parallel to Artie's awakening to the world of Theatre, runs another beautiful narrative thread, explored in the form of his romantic interest, Ramona, eloquently brought to life by Glynnis O'Connor. She is a chorus girl waiting for her big break, while juggling a complicated relationship with the mature and seasoned Harry. Her electric chemistry with inexperienced Artie adds a different substance to their characters and provides the audience with delightful and endearing moments to enjoy and savor.

The movie brilliantly depicts the tantalizing multitude of emotions involved in the world of theatre and seamlessly intertwines them with the budding love saga. It takes viewers on a journey through the bright lights of stage, the charm and trepidations of the auditorium, the exhilarating applause, and the crushing silence post show, while delving into the emotional maze of its characters, their dreams, and their struggles. Above all, Those Lips Those Eyes is a warm narrative about theatre's magic, its enchanting hold on those who let themselves be seduced by its charm.

Frank Langella is particularly captivating as a fading matinee idol wrestling with his mortality. He delivers a magnetic performance and captures the audience's attention with his charismatic presence onscreen. His embodied charisma, grandeur stage presence, natural acting skills amalgamate seamlessly to portray the character's complexity and depth with perfection.

Tom Hulce, known widely for his performance in Amadeus, does justice to the role of naive, aspiring Artie. His boyish charm, combined with earnest performance, adds another layer of authenticity to the narrative. Glynnis O'Connor, as Ramona, is a revelation, blending youthful radiance and gravitas to create a character that’s as relatable as it is aspirational.

Those Lips Those Eyes does justice to not only the seasoned actors but also the craft that it celebrates – theatre. It presents an amalgamation of exquisite elements: romance, comedy, drama, and beautiful theatre references that make the film strikingly memorable. Whether it is the tongue-in-cheek humor, the palpable chemistry between the characters, the exciting undertones of coming-of-age angst, or the incandescent allure of the world of theatre, the film leaves an imprint that stays with viewers long after the curtains fall. Whether you're a fan of theatre, the performers, or simply a cinephile, this movie definitely earns a spot in your watchlist, promising to transport you to a bygone era, painted with charm, humor, and a whole lot of heart.