Micki Maude ( 1984 )

Micki + Maude (1984): A Comedic Exploration of Modern Relationships

Micki + Maude, released in 1984, is a romantic comedy directed by Blake Edwards and starring Dudley Moore, Amy Irving, and Ann Reinking. While not considered one of Edwards' or Moore's most iconic works, the film offers a lighthearted and often farcical look at the complexities of modern relationships, commitment, and the consequences of trying to have it all. It's a film that thrives on physical comedy, witty dialogue, and the undeniable charm of its lead actor. More than a simple tale of bigamy, Micki + Maude touches upon the yearning for fulfillment, the fear of making the wrong choices, and the societal pressures placed upon individuals to conform to traditional relationship norms. The film’s comedic timing and exaggerated situations offer a lens through which to examine these themes, making it an engaging, albeit somewhat dated, cinematic experience.

Synopsis

Rob Salinger (Dudley Moore) is a successful television reporter, happily married to Micki (Ann Reinking), a driven and career-focused lawyer. While Rob loves Micki deeply, he feels a void in his life, a longing for children that Micki is unwilling to fulfill due to her professional aspirations. This underlying tension leads Rob to seek solace and connection elsewhere. He meets Maude (Amy Irving), a young, talented cellist who embodies the warmth and maternal instinct he craves. Their relationship quickly blossoms, and Rob finds himself head-over-heels in love with Maude, who also desires to start a family.

Caught between his love for his ambitious wife and his desire for a family with Maude, Rob makes the audacious decision to marry both women. He navigates a treacherous path of deception, juggling two separate lives, creating elaborate alibis, and relying on the help of his long-suffering friend, Leo (Richard Mulligan), to maintain the facade. The situation becomes increasingly chaotic and hilarious as both Micki and Maude become pregnant, forcing Rob to confront the impossible reality of his double life. The film culminates in a series of frantic encounters at the hospital as both women go into labor, threatening to expose Rob's elaborate lie and ultimately forcing him to choose between the two women he loves.

Characters

The success of Micki + Maude rests heavily on its engaging and well-defined characters. Each character represents a different facet of the film's exploration of modern relationships and personal desires.

Themes

Micki + Maude explores several recurring themes related to love, commitment, and societal expectations. These themes, while presented in a comedic context, offer a glimpse into the anxieties and aspirations of the time.

• The Conflict Between Career and Family: The film highlights the struggle faced by many women (and increasingly men) in balancing professional ambitions with the desire for a family. Micki's dedication to her career and Maude's yearning for motherhood represent opposing viewpoints on this complex issue.
• The Search for Fulfillment: Rob's actions are driven by a deep-seated desire for fulfillment, both professionally and personally. He seeks validation and happiness in both his marriage to Micki and his relationship with Maude, highlighting the challenges of finding complete satisfaction in a single relationship.
• The Deception and Consequences of Bigamy: The central premise of the film revolves around the deceit inherent in Rob's bigamous relationship. The film explores the ethical implications of his actions and the potential consequences of his lies. While presented humorously, the film acknowledges the emotional damage caused by infidelity and betrayal.
• The Portrayal of Shifting Gender Roles: The film reflects the changing gender roles of the 1980s. Micki represents the empowered, independent woman who prioritizes her career, while Maude embodies a more traditional, nurturing role. Rob is caught between these two evolving ideals of womanhood.
• The Absurdity of Societal Expectations: The exaggerated situations and farcical humor in the film serve to highlight the absurdity of societal expectations surrounding marriage, family, and personal happiness. The film suggests that these expectations can be suffocating and lead individuals to make questionable choices in their pursuit of happiness.

Humor and Style

Micki + Maude is a classic Blake Edwards comedy, characterized by physical humor, witty dialogue, and a fast-paced narrative. Dudley Moore's comedic timing and physical dexterity are central to the film's humor. The film relies heavily on slapstick, sight gags, and absurd situations to generate laughter. The humor is often exaggerated and over-the-top, creating a sense of controlled chaos that is typical of Edwards' films. However, some critics found the humor to be dated and relying too heavily on stereotypes.

The film's pacing is brisk, with a series of escalating comedic situations that build towards the climax at the hospital. The dialogue is sharp and witty, filled with clever puns and sarcastic remarks. The film's overall tone is lighthearted and escapist, aiming to entertain rather than to provoke deep thought. Edwards' signature style, evident in films like The Pink Panther series, is present in Micki + Maude, although the film is not considered to be among his best works.

Reception and Critical Analysis

Micki + Maude received mixed reviews upon its release. While Dudley Moore's performance was generally praised, some critics found the plot to be contrived and the humor to be uneven. The film was criticized for relying too heavily on stereotypes and for its predictable narrative. Some reviewers also questioned the film's portrayal of women, arguing that it reinforced traditional gender roles rather than challenging them. However, the film was also praised for its lighthearted entertainment value and its ability to elicit genuine laughter. It was a moderate box office success.

Looking back, Micki + Maude can be seen as a product of its time, reflecting the anxieties and aspirations of the 1980s. The film's exploration of changing gender roles and the challenges of balancing career and family remains relevant, although its comedic approach may seem dated to some viewers. The film's lasting appeal lies in its charming lead performance by Dudley Moore and its ability to provide a lighthearted escape from the complexities of real life. Despite its flaws, Micki + Maude remains a watchable and entertaining example of romantic comedy from the era.

Blake Edwards' Direction

Blake Edwards' direction is a key element in shaping the film's comedic tone and overall style. His experience in creating slapstick and farcical situations is evident throughout Micki + Maude. Edwards utilizes visual gags, physical comedy, and quick editing to enhance the comedic effect. His ability to create a sense of controlled chaos is particularly evident in the film's climactic scenes. While Edwards' direction is competent, some critics argued that Micki + Maude lacked the originality and innovation of his earlier works. It's often regarded as a competent, but not outstanding, entry in his filmography.

Dudley Moore's Performance

Dudley Moore's performance as Rob Salinger is widely considered to be the highlight of the film. Moore's natural charm, comedic timing, and physical dexterity are perfectly suited to the role. He brings a sense of vulnerability and humanity to the character, making him sympathetic despite his questionable actions. Moore's ability to convey both humor and pathos is essential to the film's success. His performance is a testament to his comedic genius and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. The physical comedy is especially strong, and Moore's ability to play a man in over his head shines through. He keeps the audience invested, even when Rob's actions might otherwise be unsympathetic.

The Supporting Cast

The supporting cast of Micki + Maude also contributes to the film's overall comedic effect. Ann Reinking brings a sense of strength and determination to the role of Micki, while Amy Irving portrays Maude with warmth and vulnerability. Richard Mulligan's performance as Leo is particularly memorable, providing a comedic foil to Moore's character and adding a layer of grounded humor to the film. The interactions between the supporting characters and Rob are essential to the film's comedic dynamic.

Legacy

While Micki + Maude is not considered a cinematic masterpiece, it remains a popular and entertaining example of 1980s romantic comedy. The film's themes of love, commitment, and societal expectations continue to resonate with audiences. Dudley Moore's performance is still appreciated for its charm and comedic brilliance. The film's legacy lies in its ability to provide a lighthearted and escapist viewing experience, reminding audiences of the challenges and absurdities of modern relationships. It serves as a snapshot of societal attitudes toward gender roles and family structures during that decade. Although some of its humor and themes may be dated, Micki + Maude still offers a worthwhile glimpse into the anxieties and aspirations of the 1980s, through the lens of Blake Edwards' signature comedic style.

Conclusion

Micki + Maude is a film that, while flawed, delivers on its promise of comedic entertainment. Its exploration of relationship dynamics, even if exaggerated, offers a mirror to the complexities of modern love. The film's enduring appeal lies in its lighthearted approach, Dudley Moore's captivating performance, and its reflection of societal shifts during the 1980s. Despite its mixed critical reception, Micki + Maude remains a significant entry in Blake Edwards' filmography and a reminder of Dudley Moore's undeniable comedic talent. It's a film best enjoyed for its escapism and its humorous portrayal of the age-old struggle to balance personal desires with societal expectations.