Period Of Adjustment (1962)

A newlywed couple, a nurse (Jane Fonda) and a shell shocked Korean war vet (Jim Hutton), who are having trouble adjusting to each other are traveling by car to Miami for their honeymoon. On their way, they stop to visit a war buddy (Anthony Franciosa) of the husband who is having his own marital problems with his wife (Lois Nettleton). Based on an unsuccessful play by Tennessee Williams, this is a rare foray into the comedy field for him. You can see why the play wasn't a success. It's not very funny and what insights into relationships Williams brings to the piece aren't very penetrating. This was the first movie directed by George Roy Hill (THE STING) who also directed the original stage version. The play (screenplay adapted by Isobel Lennart) is opened up somewhat from its living room set but it's still not very cinematic. If there's a reason to see this movie (and there is), it's Jane Fonda! Channeling Marilyn Monroe, using all the comedic gifts at her disposal, Fonda makes the ditzy bride both appealing and poignant. But even in the film's dross, there's a bright spot or two and there's a beautifully played out scene between Franciosa and Nettleton as they drive home from a police station. With Jack Albertson, John McGiver, John Astin and Mabel Albertson.