An Unmarried Woman

The late-1970s feminism of An Unmarried Woman may seem quaintly outmoded today, but writer-director Paul Mazursky's acclaimed dramedy holds up remarkably well after nearly 30 years, mostly due to the gutsy, Oscar-nominated performance by Jill Clayburgh in the title role. Clayburgh plays Erica, the seemingly happily-married wife of Manhattan stockbroker Martin (Michael Murphy), who suddenly informs her (through crocodile tears) that he's leaving her. After the initial shock of separation wears off, she begins to "discover herself" and finds a supportive lover (Alan Bates). As Mazursky's seriocomic screenplay unfolds, it's a safe bet that a lot of married (or unmarried) women will recognize at least a part of themselves in Erica's liberation. Clayburgh is obviously proud of this role, and her DVD commentary (with Mazursky's comments recorded separately) is as bright, articulate, and admirable as the character she played so well. Highly recommended. (J. Shannon)