It's a cute movie but not really a classic, but then neither is "What's Up Doc?" in my book. Both are fun, silly comedies. There is a certain amount of "sexual tension" real or imagined between O'Neil and Streisand. Ryan plays "Kid Natural" Scanlon, a down-on-his-luck washed up small time boxer. Some brief (but not frontal) nudity and horseplay in the locker room scenes and Bab's exercise class. Otherwise, quite tame in spite of some of the situations, including a bedroom encounter. Some mildly salty language and a very annoying performance by Patti D'Arbanville as Ryan's crass and tough girlfriend with "smoker's cough" are my reasons for marking down this film to an "8". Is it realistic? No. A perfume company would not own a boxer's contract, even as a tax shelter. However, Ryan's boxing scenes have a look of authenticity to them and he doesn't appear to be using a stunt double. Of course nobody would "throw in the towel" on purpose during a boxing match to disqualify the winner for such a silly reason as "true love". That's what makes this both a comedy and a fantasy. Barbra is in the best shape of her life and looks absolutely fantastic. It's funny enough that you don't have to be a fan of hers to enjoy it, but it helps if you like professional boxing or wrestling. The only notable song is the title track sung by (who else?) Barbra; so it's not a musical. This little movie made tons of money at the box office and in rentals. Apparently, it has been forgotten about, over the years.
Review of The Main Event
The Main Event
(1979)
A Steamy Sequel to "What's Up Doc?" with Boxing Gloves
16 July 2013
Warning: Spoilers