Not having a clue as to when this film version of William Inge's play "Bus Stop" had been made into another film, we decided to give it a try. As it turned out, it was an actual filmed play as it was seen at the Claremont Theater in California, directed by Peter Hunt.
"Bus Stop" was a success on Broadway. It boasted Kim Stanley, one of America's great actresses of the last century in the title role, and the incomparable Elaine Stritch as Grace, the owner of the roadside diner where all the action takes place. The play, directed by Harold Clurman, a pillar of the New York theater, was a smash hit. The film version that followed in 1956 starred Marilyn Monroe.
This 1982 filmed version sticks closely to the original Inge play. Cherry is played with great feeling by Margot Kidder, a good actress who knew her character well and projects sincerity and charm in her approach to this woman. Tim Matheson, who should be seen more often, appears as Beau. The solid cast also included veterans of the stage and screen, Claude Akins, Pat Hingle, Joyce Van Patten, and Barry Corbin, among others.
Director Peter Hunt gave a quick pace to the production and it shows by the way the audience responds to all the key moments in the play. If it happens to show in your cable network, give it a try, you will not be disappointed.
