Watch Best Friends

Best Friends is a 1975 drama film that follows the life of two childhood friends as they grow older and experience the ups and downs of life. The lead roles are played by Richard Hatch and Susanne Benton, while Doug Chapin also stars in a supporting role. The film begins with the two friends, played by Hatch and Benton, meeting at a young age and developing a strong bond that lasts through the years. As they grow older, their lives take different paths. Hatch's character, Richard, becomes a successful businessman while Benton's character, Paula, becomes a struggling artist.

Throughout the years, Richard and Paula continually reconnect, with each interaction highlighting their different lifestyles and personalities. Their relationship is full of ups and downs, with moments of pure joy and deep pain.

As the movie progresses, the viewer sees the changes in both Richard and Paula as they age. Richard, though extremely successful in his career, is emotionally distant and struggles with personal connections. Paula is artistic, emotional and impulsive, often leading her down a darker path in life.

One of the key themes of the movie is the idea of pursuing happiness versus success. Richard has achieved great success in his life, but is ultimately unsatisfied with the lack of meaningful connections in his life. On the other hand, Paula struggles financially but has a life full of tumultuous yet passionate relationships.

The film takes place over the course of several years and uses this time to highlight the changing attitudes and cultural norms of the 1970s. For example, there is a scene where Richard invites Paula to a swingers party - a practice which had gained popularity in the 70s - but Paula rejects the invitation outright. Another notable scene is when Richard hires a prostitute and begins questioning the morality of it, reflecting the changing attitudes regarding sexuality during the decade.

Overall, the movie is a testament to the power of friendship and the complexities of navigating personal relationships. It is a slow-paced but character-driven drama that explores themes of success, happiness, morality, and love. The strong performances of Hatch and Benton offer a nuanced portrayal of the lead characters, making the viewer feel deeply invested in their lives.

In conclusion, Best Friends is a well-received and thought-provoking drama from the 1970s that explores complex issues through the lens of a lifelong friendship. The compelling performances of the lead actors and the film's thoughtful storytelling make it a worthwhile watch for fans of character-driven dramas.