Watch S.O.B.

In the 1981 film S.O.B., directed by Blake Edwards, audiences follow the tumultuous experiences of a Hollywood producer named Felix Farmer (played by Richard Mulligan) as he grapples with the disaster of his most recent film. Struggling to come to grips with a movie that went off the rails, Farmer finds that he has lost his touch and his confidence, causing his personal life to unravel as well. The film features a talented cast including showbusiness icon Julie Andrews, William Holden, Marisa Berenson, Richard Mulligan, and several others.

Throughout S.O.B., Edwards tackles several issues surrounding the entertainment industry, including the challenges producers face and how the public's perception of an artist can be altered overnight. Farmer's recent movie, Night Wind, is a colossal flop, causing him to spiral out of control as he tries to find a way to restore his reputation.

One of the standout features of the movie is its clever use of humor. Edwards, who also directed the Pink Panther films and Breakfast at Tiffany's, imbues S.O.B. with his signature wit, injecting moments of absurdity and satire that poke fun at Hollywood's inner workings. The director doesn't hold back when it comes to airing out the film industry's dirty laundry, from petty rivalries to the lengths studios will go to protect their assets.

The movie's leading lady, Julie Andrews, shines in a portrayal that's different from the characters she's played in the past. She plays Sally Miles, a former child star who has settled into a life of mediocrity and alcoholism. Andrews' performance is searing and memorable, adding to the overall theme of loss and disillusionment that lingers throughout the film. It's a departure from her typical roles and reminds viewers of the depth of her acting ability.

William Holden, another Hollywood vet, is equally strong in his role as Tim Culley, a friend of Farmer's who tries to help him salvage his career. Holden brings an air of authenticity to his scenes and portrays Culley as a genuine and sympathetic character, which makes the character's fate even more emotional.

Marisa Berenson rounds out the main cast as the "other woman," Gloria Revelle. In the film, Revelle is a young actress who earns a role in Farmer's latest film and ends up having an affair with him. Berenson's acting is nuanced, bringing depth to a character who could have easily become a one-dimensional stereotype.

Aside from the character portrayals, the film also boasts a stunning soundtrack by Henry Mancini, who collaborated with Edwards on numerous occasions. The film's title track, "Song of Black Max," is a standout, with its jazzy undertones and catchy melody.

Overall, S.O.B. is an entertaining and thought-provoking film that pulls back the curtain on Hollywood's inner workings. Its commentary on the film industry is still relevant today, and Edwards' clever writing and sharp humor ensure it continues to be a popular film decades later. Its excellent cast and unforgettable soundtrack make it a must-see for anyone interested in Hollywood's history and behind-the-scenes stories.

S.O.B. is a 1981 comedy with a runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 62.