Seems Like Old Times

Neil Simon wrote the brisk, original screenplay for this 1980 comedy, in which Chevy Chase plays a novelist kidnapped by thieves and set up as the patsy in a bank robbery. Eluding arrest, Chase finds his way to the home of his ex-wife (Goldie Hawn), a renowned defense attorney currently married to a politically ambitious D.A. (Charles Grodin). Clearly inspired by The Talk of the Town, George Stevens' terrific 1942 comedy, Seems Like Old Times pours on the screwball action as efforts to keep Chase out of sight chafe against Grodin's interests and squeaky-clean reputation. Veteran television director Jay Sandrich (The Mary Tyler Moore Show) nails down the crisp appeal of Simon's literate dialogue, and the cast (Chase's work here is certainly among his best) drum up some awfully appealing, sympathetic characters in this light entertainment. Although extra-less, sporting a less then sterling transfer and mono sound, the film is presented in both standard and widescreen versions. A strong optional purchase. (T. Keogh)