Micki + Maude

Directed by Blake Edwards, Micki + Maude details the chaos that ensues after Dudley Moore’s Rob Salinger, married to a successful workaholic (Ann Reinking’s Micki), finds himself falling for and eventually married to a shy cellist (Amy Irving’s Maude) – with the situation made all-the-more complex after both women wind up pregnant. It’s a testament to Edwards’ approach to Jonathan Reynolds’ screenplay that Micki + Maude never quite becomes the sleazy, icky piece of work one might’ve anticipated, and it’s certainly clear that Moore’s personable and downright captivating performance plays a key role in confirming the picture’s success – with the actor’s affable turn as the impressively likable protagonist heightened by the efforts of an eclectic supporting cast that includes Richard Mulligan, Wallace Shawn, and George Gaynes. And although the movie ultimately does move a little too slowly and feel a bit too long, Micki + Maude certainly benefits quite substantially from an ongoing emphasis on broadly-conceived (and very funny) comedic set-pieces – with, especially, the frantic climax, which follows Moore’s frazzled character as he attempts to assist both his wives with their respective deliveries, ensuring that the whole thing concludes on a palpably positive note. (It’s just a shame about that 118 minute running time, though.)

*** out of ****