Happily I can't remember the end that Elaine May disliked so much, but it didn't hurt my memory of the laughs. Both May and Matthau are as good as they get, and Matthau's car is a particular delight. The change in Matthau's character is completely believable. I don't understand why this gem is so generally overlooked. Perhaps it is because neither star is a STAR, but it's a pity.

Elaine May has created a many layered comedy that stays with you, if you can connect with it. The paths ones life takes often has many bends. Henry (Matthau) has no idea how many. Born to a life style he can not maintain, he chooses to deal with adversity by ignoring it. Eventually reality shakes him loose, and he must learn to deal with things and give back to society rather than taking from it. Henrietta (May) is his victim and his savior. The epitome of a child who was always sent away, she has grown into a person who is not really there. Her catalyst and transmogrifier is Henry. Haunting dialog and poignant social exposition make this classic 70's sleeper worth every stretch.