Watch The Secret Life of an American Wife

The Secret Life of an American Wife is a dramatic film from 1968. The movie casts Walter Matthau, Anne Jackson, and Patrick O'Neal as the three principal characters. The story revolves around the life of a suburban housewife, Alyce Wellington (played by Jackson), and her monotonous routine. Alyce suddenly finds herself at crossroads when her husband Jim (Matthau) departs on a business trip, leaving her alone for two weeks.

As the film begins, Alyce appears to be disinterested in her daily routine. She takes care of the household tasks and meets her friend for lunch. She also talks to a psychologist about her problems, but nothing seems to work. It is apparent that Alyce feels unfulfilled and wants more from life. She fantasizes about having an affair and is intrigued when a man named Steve (O'Neal) approaches her one evening.

Steve turns out to be Jim's business associate, who is also interested in Alyce. Steve seems to have an uncanny ability to read Alyce's mind and understand her unspoken feelings. Alyce becomes increasingly infatuated with Steve, and they soon start an affair. However, things take a turn when Jim comes back unexpectedly, and Alyce is forced to hide her new relationship.

The Secret Life of an American Wife explores themes of mid-life crisis, suburban ennui, and societal expectations. Alyce represents a generation of women who felt trapped in their roles as housewives and desired something more fulfilling. The film delves into the psychological aspects of Alyce's character and her need for excitement, emotion, and adventure.

Walter Matthau is outstanding in his role as Jim Wellington, a typical, middle-aged businessman. He is authoritative but emotionally distant, and his absenteeism and workaholic ways take a toll on his marriage. Anne Jackson plays Alyce with a subtle complexity that makes her character relatable and empathetic. She portrays the frustration and longing for independence that many women felt in the sixties.

Patrick O'Neal, who plays Steve, brings a mysterious quality to the film as Alyce's love interest. He is charming, enigmatic, and somewhat dangerous. Although his intentions are not crystal clear, he seems to represent the passion and spontaneity that Alyce craves. O'Neal's acting skills add an edge to the film, and his ambiguous character leaves the audience guessing until the end.

The Secret Life of an American Wife has a distinctly sixties vibe, with a soundtrack that includes songs by The Association and other popular bands of the time. The film also deals with topics that were more taboo during that era, such as adultery and extramarital affairs. However, the film treats these subjects with sensitivity and nuance, creating an engrossing story that holds up well, even today.

Overall, The Secret Life of an American Wife is a compelling drama that explores the repressed desires and frustrations of a housewife. The characters are complex, and the acting is superb, making it a timeless classic. The film leaves the audience with a lot to ponder about mid-life crises, gender roles, and the expectations that society places on individuals.