Watch A New Leaf

A New Leaf is a charming and quirky comedy film from 1971, directed by and starring Elaine May, alongside Walter Matthau and Jack Weston. The story follows the hapless and selfish playboy, Henry Graham, who finds himself on the brink of bankruptcy after years of indulging in an extravagant lifestyle. Desperate for money, Henry decides to marry into wealth, setting his sights on Henrietta Lowell, a wealthy heiress with a love for botany.

The film is infused with a delightful mix of screwball comedy and dark humor, as Henry not only marries Henrietta for her money but also plans to kill her so he can inherit her fortune. However, things don't go as planned when Henry finds himself falling in love with Henrietta and begins to question his motives.

Walter Matthau gives a standout performance as the selfish and snobbish Henry Graham, who is utterly charming despite his despicable behavior. His comic timing and dry delivery are spot-on, making him a joy to watch on screen. Elaine May also shines as the prim and proper Henrietta Lowell, whose love for botany ends up playing a crucial role in the film's plot.

Despite the film's dark comedy, there's a sense of warmth and humor that runs through the entire movie. The humor comes from the witty dialogue, the absurd situations that Henry finds himself in, and the oddball characters that populate the story. Jack Weston is excellent as Henry's loyal and bumbling assistant, who tries his best to help Henry carry out his dastardly plan but ends up causing more problems than he solves.

The film's pacing is excellent, with the story progressing at a brisk pace that never feels rushed. The plot twists and turns as Henry's plan goes awry, keeping the audience engaged and entertained. The film's climax is both hilarious and heartwarming, providing a satisfying conclusion to the story.

The film's visuals are also noteworthy, with beautiful shots of New York City and Long Island providing a stunning backdrop to the story. The interiors of Henrietta's mansion are sumptuous and elegant, perfectly capturing the opulence of her lifestyle. The costumes and set design also add to the film's charm, with Henry's dapper suits contrasting with Henrietta's frumpy outfits.

Overall, A New Leaf is a delightful comedy film that still holds up well today, thanks to its witty script, stellar performances, and charming visuals. It's a movie that will make you laugh out loud while also providing moments of genuine emotion and heart. Whether you're a fan of classic comedy films or are looking for a lighthearted and entertaining movie, A New Leaf is definitely worth a watch.

A New Leaf is a 1971 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.