What's Up, Doc?

Watch What's Up, Doc?

  • G
  • 1972
  • 1 hr 34 min
  • 7.7  (27,592)

What's Up, Doc? is a classic screwball comedy film from 1972 starring Barbra Streisand, Ryan O'Neal, and Madeline Kahn. Directed by Peter Bogdanovich, the movie is set in San Francisco and follows the misadventures of four people whose lives collide as they pursue a stolen bag full of valuable jewels. The story begins with Howard Bannister (Ryan O'Neal), a serious-minded musicologist who is in town to attend a conference and give a lecture. His fiancée Eunice Burns (Madeline Kahn) joins him on the trip, hoping to keep him focused on his work and away from any distractions. However, things take a turn when they check into their hotel and realize that their luggage has been mistakenly switched with that of Judy Maxwell (Barbra Streisand), a free-spirited woman who happens to be in San Francisco for a job interview.

Judy, who is instantly smitten with Howard, takes advantage of the mix-up to flirt with him and insert herself into his life. Meanwhile, a wealthy woman named Mrs. Van Hoskins (Mabel Albertson) has entrusted her precious jewels to her bumbling nephew George (Austin Pendleton), who promptly loses them in Judy's bag. When Judy discovers the jewels, chaos ensues as she tries to keep them safe while dodging the henchmen of a gangster (Sorrell Booke) who is after the jewels.

As the various characters become entangled in one another's lives, misunderstandings and mistaken identities pile up, leading to a wild climax that involves car chases, a courtroom trial, and a comedic showdown in a hotel room. Along the way, Streisand delivers a powerhouse performance as the irrepressible Judy, whose verbal and physical antics keep the other characters and the audience on their toes.

What's Up, Doc? is a throwback to the classic Hollywood comedies of the 1930s and 1940s, with its zany plot, rapid-fire dialogue, and larger-than-life characters. Streisand's energy and charm are a perfect match for the film's screwball tone, while O'Neal's deadpan reactions to the chaos around him provide a counterpoint of sorts. Kahn, in her first major film role, shines as the neurotic Eunice, who is constantly battling her own insecurities and frustrations.

The movie also features an impressive supporting cast, including Kenneth Mars as a pompous professor, Liam Dunn as a harried hotel manager, and John Hillerman as a stuffy lawyer. The film's production design is another highlight, with San Francisco's iconic landmarks and colorful neighborhoods serving as the backdrop for the action.

What's Up, Doc? was a critical and commercial success upon its release in 1972, earning rave reviews for its witty script and expert direction. The film has since become a beloved classic, with its iconic quotes and memorable scenes still resonating with audiences today. Whether you're a fan of classic Hollywood comedies or just looking for a good laugh, What's Up, Doc? is sure to delight with its infectious humor and irresistible charm.

What's Up, Doc? is a 1972 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.

What's Up, Doc?
Description
Where to Watch What's Up, Doc?
What's Up, Doc? is available to watch, stream, download and buy on demand at Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, YouTube VOD and Vudu. Some platforms allow you to rent What's Up, Doc? for a limited time or purchase the movie and download it to your device.
  • Release Date
    1972
  • MPAA Rating
    G
  • Runtime
    1 hr 34 min
  • IMDB Rating
    7.7  (27,592)