A sadly underrated movie. Hollywood could not have loved it because of the cruelly true things it says about how movies are made, about how a writer's creative vision becomes corrupted and debauched on its way to the screen. That doesn't sound like a setup for a comedy, but a wonderfully dark comedy it is, with some richly witty dialogue. Landau's performance is superb (he is one of the best actors around),and the descent of Wuhl's character from idealistic writer to desperate self-promoter - a sad journey - is made humorous. Wonderful bits by Eli Wallach, Danny Aiello, and all three mistresses.

A sophisticated dark Hollywood comedy, IMHO superior to THE PLAYER. The cast is a powerhouse, but Martin Landau is outstanding, as is the black girl who plays Beverly, DeNiro's mistress. I've seen it three times and laughed harder each time. Basically, it's about the woes of a director/scriptwriter (Wuhl)who, upon wannabe producer Landau's urging, tries to pitch his script to three money guys (Wallach, Aiello, DeNiro). He fights unsuccessfully to preserve the integrity of his artistic vision.

Barry Primus directed and co-wrote this 'Hollywood insider's comedy' which isn't very inside and is never terribly funny. Robert Wuhl is a struggling screenwriter who, with help from Martin Landau's over-the-hill movie producer, hopes to get his picture made with financial backing from three hot-tempered high rollers; the catch is, each investor wants his mistress to have a part in the film, and all three women prove very difficult to handle. Potentially interesting premise given over to foul-mouthed neurotics who are never as amusing as they're supposed to be. Wuhl, an actor of quicksilver comedic timing, thanklessly plays the incredulous observer here, while the all-star supporting cast loudly plays up the material until the satirical edge flags and becomes cartoonish. Primus' direction is wobbly and uneven, though he gets some amusing facial expressions from Robert De Niro (who also co-produced, for reasons which are unclear). Shabbily edited, and with ungainly cinematography. *1/2 from ****