The Way We Were (1973)

Robert Redford and Barbra Streisand star as sociopolitical opposites--he's a WASP novelist, she's an activist--who nevertheless strike up a romance in the 1930s, and have a rocky relationship through the next two decades that reflects much of America's history. An essential part of the movie--the Hollywood blacklist and the McCarthy witch- hunt years--comes across as a botch, due to some excessive cutting before the film was released. But except for that hole in the heart of the story, director Sydney Pollack (Out of Africa) has crafted a strong and moving drama about two interesting characters. Redford (always good with Pollack) is at the height of his powers, and Streisand is persuasive. --Tom Keogh Amazon.com essential video

 The Way We Were
This is a movie classic. This movie will tug at your heart- if you ever shared a deep love for someone you couldn't have you'll see what I mean when you watch this movie. Just hearing Barbra Striesand sing in this movie is a plus in itself. May 4, 2008

 If you love Streisand...........
You have to see this; it's a very mature love story with strong political undertones and two people who feel they cannot settle for anything less than their dreams.

Streisand has been an actress that appears to have a love/hate effect on the audience; you either love her or hate her, for whatever reason. She has a strong personality in real life and the director allows her character to show it full force in this film. It's a classic that needs to be seen more often. It is more of a chick flick I think. And I think you have to see it more than once to get the whole emotional undertones; see Streisand interact with others besides Redford to understand her personality. The ending is wonderful; what, no sequel? December 30, 2007

 ..."BUT IT'S LAUGHTER WE'LL REMEMBER"
The real tragedy of this movie is the apparent disconnect of the title song, found on many Barbra Streisand recordings, and the picture itself. This is one mature love story,beautifully photographed, and very well acted by Redford and Streisand.Released during the Vietnam era,the picture is a breath of fresh air, even though the film portrays protests of the 1940's and 1950's. That's the rub: Streisand's jumping from one underdog cause to another finally dooms the love relationship with Redford(no polyanna himself) who's trying to make a living for the couple,first as an immature novelist, then as a budding screenplay writer. Their inflexibility regarding their individual roles in life sadly and slowly separates the pair,leading to an amiable breakup at the time of their baby's birth.(Truthfully, is there really such a thing as a 100% "amiable breakup")? Don't be content with just listening to the musical score, get yourself a copy of an outstanding motion pcture. October 31, 2007

 classic movie
This movie always moves me. This happens frequently in life. You love someone but your differences are too great to stay together....doesn't mean you don't love them you just can't live with them. A must see! October 27, 2007

 A Very Sad Love Story - Beautifully Told
Isn't it ironic that when asked to choose "The Greatest Love Stories Ever Told", almost NO ONE would mention the wondrous "The Way We Were". Here is a film that understands love and relationships much more than saccharine films like "Love Story", and actually invests so much in the delightful script.

As usual Barbra Streisand is amazing. I actually heard about this movie first from Fran Drescher when she and her mother bring it up on the sitcom "The Nanny". Yeah, I was sort of late to the party, but what a party it is!

However, if you haven't seen this, be aware that the ending will leave you emotionally devastated if you're a fan of good romances. I hold this movie even more powerful than say, "The Notebook". I would also say, that this is Streisands' best performance, much better than "Funny Girl" but not quite as amazing as "Yentl".

A sad, pensive love story that will have you thinking about it for days. Be prepared to bawl your eyes out. This is a movie of everlasting beauty. September 21, 2007

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