Cast
View AllTony Curtis
as Bob Weston
Natalie Wood
as Helen Gurley Brown
Henry Fonda
as Frank Broderick
Lauren Bacall
as Sylvia Broderick
Mel Ferrer
as Rudy DeMeyer
Fran Jeffries
as Gretchen
Leslie Parrish
as Susan
Edward Everett Horton
as The Chief
Larry Storch
as Motorcycle Cop
Stubby Kaye
as Helen's Cabbie
Howard St. John
as George Randall
Otto Kruger
as Dr. Anderson
Max Showalter
as Holmes
William Lanteau
as Sylvester
Helen Kleeb
as Hilda
Crew
Director
- Richard Quine
Writer
- Joseph Heller
- Leslie H. Martinson
- David R. Schwartz
Producer
- William T. Orr
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Sex and the Single Girl represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Richard Quine brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1964, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Sex and the Single Girl took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 138 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1964, when this film was released:
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Sex and the Single Girl shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike High Society, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Sex and the Single Girl offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Prisoner of Zenda and The Gazebo explore similar territory, Sex and the Single Girl stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 25, 1964
- Runtime: 1h 50m