A New Leaf
Screening on Film
Directed by Elaine May.
With Walter Matthau, Elaine May, Jack Weston.
US, 1971, 35mm, color, 102 min.
With Walter Matthau, Elaine May, Jack Weston.
US, 1971, 35mm, color, 102 min.
Combining her already well-established talents as a writer, director, and comedienne, Elaine May made her directorial film debut with this delightful satiric comedy. May herself plays a frumpy and eccentric, but very wealthy botanist who is pursued with murderous intent by an aging and financially embarrassed rake (Matthau). Despite re-editing by Paramount, which prompted May to disown the film, A New Leaf boasts wonderful performances from both stars.