I Ought to Be in Pictures (1982)

Such a frustrating disappointment

Better Late Then Never

As Good As It Gets

a film so unique, intoxicating and bizarre that it not only demands another viewing, but is also forgivable as a satirical comedy where the jokes eventually take the back seat.

In 1982, Vincent Canby of The New York Times described "I Ought to Be in Pictures" as a film that "ought not to be." Popular television critic Gene Siskel chose "I Ought to Be in Pictures" as one of the worst films of the year. On his show, Siskel described the theme of the film in these words: "A smart alec daughter learning to accept a smart alec father." The preceding reviewers' comments demonstrate the inherent subjectivity involved in film criticism.The "smart alec" daughter is Libby Tucker, as played by the young actress Dinah Manoff. Manhoff had just won a Tony Award for her performance of the same role in the New York stage version of Neil Simon's play. In the film, Manhoff creates a textured, multi-layered interpretation of Libby Tucker. Her comic timing is superb, and she discovers the emotional depth of the character late in the film.The "smart alec" father is Herbert Tucker, who is played by one of the finest interpreters of Neil Simon's comedies and one of the most beloved stars of Hollywood, Walter Matthau. In interpreting Herb Tucker, Matthau's naturalism in the reading of Simon's often contrived one-liners is superb. And he hits all the right notes in the touching relationship of Herb and the daughter he has not seen in sixteen years.Herbert Ross brings a fine directorial touch in adapting Simon's stage play to the screen. There is some terrific location shooting in Los Angeles, including the Hollywood Park race track and Dodger Stadium. There was a picture-perfect selection of Herb Tucker's home at 1761 Vista Del Mar Avenue, in Hollywood—a residence with a distinctive red tile roof. That house is still standing and may be see in a google satellite map, virtually unchanged from the 1982 filming.It was a challenge to adapt a three-character play to the film medium. But this crisply paced and well-photographed film was undeniably a success. Ann-Margaret delivers a sensitive, understated performance as Steffy, who is involved in a romantic relationship with Herb. Other small roles, such as the two young men Libby meets are also spot-on.The beautiful scoring of the film is by Marvin Hamlisch, one of the most accomplished composers in both films and the American theater. The beautiful song "One Hello" recurs through the film's score, culminating at the end with a sensitive rendition by vocalist Randy Crawford.With the passing of over three decades "I Ought to Be in Pictures" is a film worthy of reconsideration. How many films today have this level of sophisticated comedy and are able to balance the humor with a heartfelt message? And how many have the chemistry of such outstanding performers as Walter Matthau, Dinah Manoff, and Ann-Margaret?

Wonderful film with Neil Simon again showing that he is the master of writing.Dinah Manoff is just marvelous as the precocious 19 year old who goes to California to see the dad she hasn't seen in 16 years.The film is touching as it first shows that Matthau knows so little about his daughter (and son) but then as the film goes on, he shows all the attributes that a father shows.As Matthau's girlfriend, Ann-Margret is very good. The picture itself provides no screaming of usual Matthau antics. He is genuine here in every sense of the word.The film shows the strong bond that is formed and we're sorry when Libby takes the bus back to N.Y. At least, there is a commitment by the father to keep in touch. We also have to wonder what kind of woman he was married to that drove him away years before.

what an outstanding and heart-tugging performance by DINAH. i never miss a rerun and go out of my way to see it. i can't believe she was not nominated for something. a perfect bit of acting by her and WALTER MATHAU. my wife says, "i guess you're.... just in love". the first time i saw the film was totally by accident. i was in a dentist's office for an appointment for teeth cleaning. the movie came on in the waiting room and after it was thirty minutes into filming the nurse came out and said "next". by a stroke of luck it was the last appointment of the day. i asked the dentist, who is also a dear friend, to let me continue watching. well, we both watched. the nurse had gone and he worked on my cleaning himself. he said it was worth it.

The problem with this film was that it was a rotten play to begin with. It's the same old Neil Simon characters, same old Neil Simon storylines. For Matthau, this is the same Neil Simon characterization as with his previous ventures into Simon's work. He's much better as Oscar in "The Odd Couple." Ann Margaret is entirely out of place here, but so is the writing and Herbert Ross's direction. Only Dinah Manoff, who reprises her Tony Award winning role, comes off successful in the picture.