⭐⭐⭐⭐

91 minutes ‧ PG ‧ 1971
Cast: Ruth Gordon, Bud Cort, Vivian Pickles
Director: Hal Ashby
Genres: Comedy, Drama

Few films make such a bold statement as Harold and Maude. The opening scene shows a young man hanging from a noose in his family’s luxurious parlor, while his mother walks by, not shocked but somewhat annoyed. It’s just Harold reenacting his own death once again, and at that moment, Hal Ashby’s 1971 cult classic establishes its mood — a dark comedy about death that, intriguingly, evolves into a tribute to life.

Harold Chasen, portrayed with cold brilliance by Bud Cort, is a wealthy yet lonely oddball. He drives a hearse, dismisses his mother’s constant matchmaking efforts, and crashes funerals for strangers simply out of boredom. During one of these darkly humorous visits, he encounters Maude — almost 80 but with boundless energy. Ruth Gordon’s Maude is one of the most memorable characters I’ve ever encountered. She steals cars, rescues trees, and treats each day as a stand against mediocrity. The chemistry between her and Harold feels authentic, with no sense of contrived quirkiness. Gordon and Cort create a believable, genuine connection in their unusual romance.

Ashby’s direction is quietly masterful. He doesn’t milk the jokes for laughs or the sad moments for tears. Everything just unfolds — dry humor, melancholy, and joy mingling naturally. It’s a film that trusts its own rhythm, never rushing, never pandering.

I can’t talk about Harold and Maude without mentioning Cat Stevens’ soundtrack. The songs aren’t just background — they’re the soul of the movie. “Don’t Be Shy” and “If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out” capture all the yearning and hope that words alone couldn’t. Take the music away, and you’d lose the heartbeat of the film.

Harold and Maude faced commercial challenges initially, but it built a cult following thanks to midnight screenings and word of mouth. Currently, it is recognized in the National Film Registry, aligning well with its theme of looking beyond appearances to find deeper meaning that others miss.

It begins with a joke about death and develops into a heartfelt celebration of life’s unpredictable chaos. Years later, Harold and Maude remains unmatched — a film you must see that inspires you to live fully and to sing out loudly. This movie is a must-watch. Its charm will linger with you well after it’s over.

Copyright ©️2026 by Frank Gaimari