Apr. 25, 1979|USA|96 Min.|R
Genre: Comedy;Drama;Romance
Description: “Manhattan,” released in 1979, tells the story of Isaac Davis, a 42-year-old television comedy writer who is twice-divorced and dissatisfied with his mundane job. Living in New York City, Isaac is dating Tracy, a 17-year-old student at Dalton School. His best friend, Yale Pollack, a college professor married to Emily, is secretly having an affair with Mary Wilkie. Mary’s ex-husband, Jeremiah, and Isaac’s ex-wife, Jill, who is now openly bisexual and living with her partner, Connie, also play significant roles in the narrative. Jill is writing a revealing book about her past marriage with Isaac.
The film opens with a montage of Manhattan’s iconic scenes, accompanied by George Gershwin’s *Rhapsody in Blue*. Isaac narrates drafts for a book about a man deeply in love with the city. Over time, Isaac develops an attraction to Mary despite initially being put off by her cultural snobbery. Their bond grows after a chance encounter at an Equal Rights Amendment event hosted by Bella Abzug at the Museum of Modern Art. In a poignant scene, they share a conversation that lasts until dawn, culminating with a view of the Queensboro Bridge.
Isaac continues his relationship with Tracy but makes it clear that their romance is not serious, encouraging her to pursue her acting dreams in London. When Yale ends his affair with Mary, he suggests Isaac ask her out. Isaac eventually breaks up with Tracy, causing her distress, and begins a relationship with Mary. However, tensions arise when Jill’s book, *Marriage, Divorce, and Selfhood*, is published, exposing intimate details about her past with Isaac, including a ménage à trois and an incident where Isaac attempted to run over Connie. These revelations bring humor and discomfort to Isaac’s life as he navigates his complicated relationships.
Cast director: Woody Allen
Cast actor: Woody Allen, Diane Keaton, Michael Murphy, Mariel Hemingway, Meryl Streep, Anne Byrne Hoffman, Karen Ludwig, Michael O’Donoghue, Gary Weis, Kenny Vance
Original name: Manhattan