Themes: Crumbling Marriages, Midlife Crises, Breakups and Divorces
Main Cast: Gene Hackman, Ann-Margret, Ellen Burstyn, Amy Madigan, Ally Sheedy
Release Year: 1985
Country: US
Run Time: 117 minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Plot
On the occasion of his 50th birthday, blue-collar family man Gene Hackman is possessed by our old friend, The Mid-Life Crisis. Visiting a local tavern, Hackman becomes enchanted by gorgeous barmaid Ann-Margret. In less time than it takes to down his beer, he has resolved to leave his wife Ellen Burstyn, and his daughters Ally Sheedy and Amy Madigan, in favor of a fresh start with his sexy new "conquest." The film deals not so much with Hackman's impulsive decision as with the genuine pain he leaves in his wake. Madigan's vituperative lash-out at her father is one of many heartbreaking moments of truth in this refreshingly cliché-free domestic drama. The perceptive screenplay for Twice in a Lifetime was written by Colin Welland; the film's theme music was composed by Paul McCartney. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
Review
Affording each of its characters' point of view equal credence, the unsentimental Twice in a Lifetime is a surprisingly compelling family drama that exceeds the Hollywood standard. The perennially stellar Gene Hackman brings real complexity to his role of a father leaving his family for another woman; his blend of guilt and excitement is masterful. Nominated for an Academy Award for her turn as his daughter, Amy Madigan brings out the believable angst and bitterness inherent in her character's dilemma. The rest of the cast, most notably Ann-Margret, Ellen Burstyn, and Ally Sheedy, do a good job fleshing out their characters as well. Though the script takes a few missteps, director Bud Yorkin genuinely creates a bittersweet sense of starting anew, and the authentic Washington setting gives the picture an added dimension of urgency and desperation. ~ Brendon Hanley, All Movie Guide
Darrell Larson - Jerry MacKenzie; Brian Dennehy - Nick; Chris Parker - Tim; Rachel Street - Joanne Sobel; Kevin Bleyer - Chris Sobel; Micole Mercurio - Betty; Doris Hugo Drewien - Millie; Lee Corrigan - Milos; Ralph Steadman - Mike; Rod Pilloud - Mick; Art Cahn - Nikos; Anne Ludlum - Susie; Kenneth Clark - Flower Man; Loretta Adair - Bingo Assistant; Denise Aiumu - Sales Clerk; Junior Barber - Young Kid; Gayle Bellows - Jean; George Catalano - Shoe Repairman; Sharon Collar - Maya; Eileen Cornwell - Bingo Checker; Mary Ewald - Saleswoman; Audrey Flod - Bingo Caller; Kit Harris - Dolores; Gary Kowalski - Minister; Daniel Mahar - Foreman; Keith Nicholai - Photographer; Evelyn Perdue - Lucy; Tawnya Pettiford - Neighbor; Mary Theilen - checkout clerk; Stephen Lang - Keith Sobel
Credit
Deborah Lucchessi - Casting, Erica Phillips - Costume Designer, Bernie Pollack - Costume Designer, Bud Yorkin - Director, Catherine L. Peacock - Editor, Edward Warschilka - Editor, David Salven - Executive Producer, Paul McCartney - Songwriter, Hallie Smith-Simmons - Makeup, Dan Striepeke - Makeup, Michael D. O'Shea - Camera Operator, William J. Creber - Production Designer, Nick McLean - Cinematographer, Bud Yorkin - Producer, Anthony Mondello - Set Designer, Stanley Mann - Screenwriter, Colin Welland - Screenwriter
