Middle Age Spread

Watch Middle Age Spread

"A Comedy of Bad Manners"
  • 1979
  • 1 hr 38 min
  • 6.0  (35)

Middle Age Spread is a 1979 comedy film directed by John Reid and produced by John Barnett. The movie is set in Auckland, New Zealand, and tells the story of Colin (Grant Tilly), a middle-aged man who feels trapped in his marriage and his routine job in advertising. He's become disillusioned with his life and begins to feel like he's losing his identity.

Colin begins to seek solace in his work and finds himself drawn to a new colleague, Jennifer (Dorothy McKegg). She's young, attractive, and full of energy, in stark contrast to his older, staid coworkers. Colin's newfound attraction to Jennifer leads him down a path of self-discovery and reckoning. He begins to question his choices in life and explores his passions.

Meanwhile, Colin's wife, Mary (Marlene McKinnon), is bored with her own routine and begins to feel neglected by Colin. She seeks comfort in the arms of her ex-boyfriend, Max (Peter Sumner). Max is a charming rogue, and his presence in Mary's life adds another layer of complication to Colin's already troubled marriage.

As the movie progresses, Colin and Mary's relationship reaches a breaking point. Their dissatisfaction with their lives is palpable, and they begin to reassess their choices. Colin tries to work out his feelings for Jennifer while Mary tries to figure out if Max is really the answer to her problems.

Middle Age Spread is a character-driven movie that explores themes of midlife crisis, infidelity, and personal growth. The film is anchored by a strong ensemble cast, with Grant Tilly delivering a standout performance as the conflicted Colin. His portrayal of a man in the grips of a midlife crisis is nuanced and honest, and it's easy to empathize with his character's struggles.

Dorothy McKegg also shines in the role of Jennifer. Her character is refreshing and inspiring, and her presence injects energy into the movie. Peter Sumner's portrayal of Max is also notable, as he adds a layer of intensity and drama to the story.

The movie's strength lies in its exploration of complex themes and emotions. Colin and Mary's struggles feel real, and their internal conflict is relatable. The movie also raises questions about societal expectations of middle-aged couples and whether they can really find happiness without straying off the beaten path.

The film's production design and cinematography are solid, and the setting of Auckland provides a picturesque backdrop for the story. The movie's score is also noteworthy, with a mix of upbeat and melancholic tracks that enhance the emotional resonance of the movie.

In conclusion, Middle Age Spread is an engaging and thought-provoking movie that offers a glimpse into the complexities of middle age. Its themes of infidelity, personal growth, and societal expectations are handled deftly, and its cast delivers strong performances. The movie's message is ultimately hopeful, as Colin and Mary learn to embrace their true selves and create a life that's fulfilling for them both.

Middle Age Spread
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Description
  • Release Date
    1979
  • Runtime
    1 hr 38 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    6.0  (35)