Three in the Attic

Three in the Attic is a provocative yet charming classic comedy-drama released in 1968 and stars Christopher Jones, Judy Pace, and Yvette Mimieux, among other notable performers. This film, directed by Richard Wilson and produced by Dick Clark under American International Pictures, falls under the category of late 60s counterculture and sexual liberation, which while causing a stir at the time, perfectly depicts the tumultuous social climate during the era.

The narrative revolves around the escapades of a young college student named Paxton Quigley (interpreted brilliantly by Christopher Jones), a model representation of the heterosexual male fantasy of the era. Paxton attends the fictional college of Willard, where he leads a free-spirited, bohemian lifestyle typical of the late 60s ideals. A handsome, charismatic, yet irreverent young man, Paxton is the embodiment of the youthful spirit of free love and rebellion.

The title, Three in the Attic, comes from the defining point of the plot that spins the carefree Paxton's world on its head. After embarking on a romance-filled summer road trip with a young woman named Tobey Clinton (played by the talented Yvette Mimieux), Paxton returns to college to find his romantic interest shifted towards two other women, Jan (the captivating Judy Pace) and Eulice (Maggie Thrett). After managing to keep these three affairs a secret for a significant period, Paxton's luck runs out. The three women soon discover each other and Paxton's deception.

The women, who initially fall victim to heartbreak and betrayal, decide to take the matter into their own hands, paving the way for a unique and outlandish plan. Instead of confronting Paxton outright, they decide to show him the downside of his seemingly insatiable appetite for love. The once carefree and wild playboy suddenly becomes the victim of his escapades as the women execute their creative plot detain him in the attic and subject him to a gruelling regime.

The acting performances in Three in the Attic are commendable. Christopher Jones, with his matinee-idol looks and charming smile, is very convincing as the carefree rogue whose fortune changes drastically. On the other hand, Yvette Mimieux, Judy Pace, and Maggie Thrett portray the characters of wronged women admirably, displaying a range of emotions from vulnerability to strength and revenge, beautifully depicting the shift in feminist sentiments during the era. Each woman's distinct personality is beautifully captured as an individual in her own right, opposed to merely being a plot device.

Beyond the main protagonists, Director Richard Wilson also taps into an excellent supporting cast. The film features appearances from popular film and television stars of the era like John Beck, who embodies the character of Paxton's jealous roommate, Chuck; and Reva Rose, who brings chuckles as the bumbling but loveable Dr. Irene Parsons.

The script is not without its comic relief capacities. Despite the underpinning message of the pitfalls of deception, director Richard Wilson infuses the narrative with humorous anecdotes, hilarious situation-based comedy, and witty dialogue.

However, for all its comedic episodes, Three in the Attic does not shy away from exploring the sensitive themes of promiscuity, deceit, and their repercussions. Despite being packed with light-hearted humor, the film offers a satirical critique on the conventional ideas about love, relationships, and power dynamics. It interpolates the humor into these deep-seated narratives seamlessly, leaving viewers with a fraction of the late 60s' sociocultural undertones, making it an engaging watch even for contemporary audiences.

Even with the period-piece label, if you’re up for a time capsule ride back to the late 60s complete with a whip-smart plot, nuanced characters, outstanding acting performances, and a good dose of humor, then Three in the Attic is the film for you. Its slightly unusual narrative, blended with the raw emotions and comic relief, make it a unique contribution to the comedy-drama genre. Ultimately, it offers a light-hearted yet thought-provoking look into evolving societal norms and the shifting dynamics in romantic relationships during the 60s era.