Watch The Sunshine Boys

The Sunshine Boys, released in 1975, is a classic comedy movie directed by Herbert Ross, which explores the struggles that come with aging, rivalry, and friendship. The film stars Walter Matthau, an American actor known for his range and versatility, George Burns, a legendary comedian, and Richard Benjamin. The plot revolves around Lewis and Clark, two aging vaudeville stars who used to be the most popular comedy duo in the business. Yet, after achieving enormous success over five decades, Lewis and Clark have drifted apart in their twilight years due to personal and professional differences. They haven't spoken to each other for over a decade.

Lewis (played by Matthau) is a cantankerous, ornery old man who's retired from show business and living in his New York apartment with his daughter, played by Carol Arthur. Meanwhile, Clark (played by George Burns), lives alone in New Jersey, having long ago gone into retirement. Although they are both retired, Lewis and Clark still harbor resentment for each other which is exacerbated when the nephew of Lewis, Ben (played by Richard Benjamin) approaches Clark.

Ben is a TV producer looking to bring the Sunshine Boys back together, one last time, for a special television show. However, when Ben tries to reunite the duo, it is clear that their personal animosity has not faded. The banter between the two is witty, sharp, and biting.

The movie's brilliance comes from the chemistry between Burns and Matthau. Both actors deliver spectacular performances, bringing their respective characters to life convincingly. The comedic timing of both actors is impeccable, sharp, and on-point. They get into an argument at the start of their reunion and then continue to belittle and annoy each other. It becomes clear that time hasn't softened anything in their relationship.

The imagery of the film is also captivating. As much as the dialogue, it conveys a sense of belonging and a feeling of melancholy. The movie takes the viewer back to the early 20th century, with vibrant colors and playful tunes reminiscent of the Golden Age of Hollywood.

The movie's pace is slow and deliberate, which may throw off viewers expecting fast-paced comedies. However, it is essential to the movie's success as it allows for the audience to fully invest in the characters and appreciate the nuances of the screenplay.

The Sunshine Boys is more than just a comedy, however. It is a tale of friendship and rivalry, a study of how aging can affect even the most significant of personal bonds. The character's experiences resonate with anyone, as it is a human story that touches us all.

In conclusion, The Sunshine Boys is a timeless comedy that brings together two of the greatest comedians to ever grace the screen. The film is an ode to the golden age of Hollywood, full of wit, charm, and hilarity. The chemistry between Burns and Matthau is impeccable, and the storytelling is unassuming, yet effective. The film is a reminder of why movies are so great when they are made right. It's a classic comedy that has stood the test of time and is still as funny and heartwarming now as it was in 1975.

The Sunshine Boys is a 1975 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 51 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.