Lifeguard (1976)

A 30 something lifeguard (Sam Elliott) enjoys his life on the beach. He's a sought after stud with the ladies and he has no responsibilities or commitments. But after attending his 16 year high school reunion, he begins to re-evaluate his options. Directed by Daniel Petrie (A RAISIN IN THE SUN). An often thought provoking piece that evokes the British film ALFIE (1966). Sam Elliott's Rick isn't a prick like Michael Caine's Alfie but his life seems just as aimless. In his career breakthrough role, Elliott is excellent as the drifting lifeguard but the acting honors are stolen by a young Kathleen Quinlan as a lonely 17 year old who attaches herself to him. For some bizarre reason, Paramount marketed the film as a summer (it was released in July) beach romp with girls in bikinis when it was, in fact, a poignant drama. Reviews at the time of the original release weren't kind but posterity has been good to it. With Anne Archer, Parker Stevenson and Stephen Young.