Is Four Play Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1977)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Modern Cinema cinema, the 1977 release of Four Play stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Steve and Linda need a new idea for their latest film, so they toss around a number of ideas: how about a naive young virgin being romanced and seduced by an older man; or an attractive woman who's attracted to her old and senile husban's young chauffeur; or the gangster who tricks his boss' gold-digging wife into going to bed with him for free (she got screwed in two different ways); or the guy who sleeps with his friends' wife the gets her to pretend she's someone else for her blindfolded husband; or the school teacher who lives with a hillbilly couple and convinces the superstitous girl that he can change her into a mare with his special "magic". As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Modern Cinema are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Steve and Linda need a new idea for their latest film, so they toss around a number of ideas: how about a naive young virgin being romanced and seduced by an older man; or an attractive woman who's attracted to her old and senile husban's young chauffeur; or the gangster who tricks his boss' gold-digging wife into going to bed with him for free (she got screwed in two different ways); or the guy who sleeps with his friends' wife the gets her to pretend she's someone else for her blindfolded husband; or the school teacher who lives with a hillbilly couple and convinces the superstitous girl that he can change her into a mare with his special "magic". Steve and Linda consider the possibilities (in between their own passionate sex out in the rain, in a stream, on waterskis, anywhere they can manage to do it!"

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Despite the inherent talent of Viju Krem, the performance in Four Play feels somewhat constrained by a narrative framework that doesn't fully exploit their range. There are flashes of brilliance, but the overall impact is muted.

The direction by Chris Caras is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 66 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Four Play truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Modern Cinema, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 0/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Four Play explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1977 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Chris Caras respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Four Play is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Viju Krem or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Four Play is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.