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.