Hardhat and Legs

I didn't know Ruth Gordon and Kanin's work before I saw this program, which I watched when it debuted on television so long ago. I felt the story was just right, very well written and realistic. I have watched it at least once more when I saw it listed, and I continue to love the story. Also a great showcase for Sharon Gless.

Kevin Dobson is Sal, a construction worker. Sharon Gless is Patricia, the rich girl...ah ummm...rich woman from the other side of the tracks with a great pair of gams...whom the workers at Dobson's construction site love to whistle at. The legendary team of Ruth Gordon and Garson Kanin wrote this film that brings back memories of old Rock Hudson-Doris Day films. A bit out-dated today and without the star power of the Hudson-Day films, this is still a nice romantic comedy and Sharon Gless looks great.

I enjoyed this movie. The light saxophone theme music sets the tone for a sophisticated romantic comedy. Set in a time when a woman who divorces her husband is still suspected of being a "bad" mother, this story follows a very likeable Sharon Gless in her battle to start a new life. Kevin Dobson is good as the very persistent construction worker who first falls for her legs and then for the woman herself. Gless is great as a very classy professor of human sexuality pursued by a very determined blue-collar guy with a gambling problem. My favourite scene? She meets his wonderful Italian family - and his mom (a tough sell as far as Sharon is concerned). She wins them over in a delightful and charming way. OK - I loved the final scene too. Anyway, the movie has a few plot problems and you do have to forgive the late 70's atmosphere (and attitudes) but I would recommend it if you enjoy sophisticated romantic comedies, and especially if you enjoy the work of Sharon Gless.