This 1970 film directed by Frank Perry features remarkable performances from Richard Benjamin, Carrie Snodgress and Frank Langella in a sharp, incisive look at contemporary relationships in an upwardly mobile NYC told from the point of view of the female protagonist who's more exasperated and masochistic than mad. Snodgress deservedly received an Oscar nomination; her reactions are terrific, and as her husband, Richard Benjamin gives an effectively over-the-top performance that succeeds in making a caricature a believable person. Langella is excellent and with the possible exception of Frost/Nixon it's his best film performance. Frank Perry's films include David and Lisa, Mommie Dearest, Play It As It Lays, The Swimmer and Last Summer. Diary of a Mad Housewife is Perry's best sustained and best film. The editing, set design and cinematography are outstanding and Perry sustains interests, displays sound pacing and good use of interior space. Released the same year Love Story, Patton, Five Easy Pieces, Airport and MASH competed for Best Picture, Perry's smaller, more intimate film has greater impact.
Review of Diary of a Mad Housewife
