The One and Only (1978)

The One and Only Poster

1951: Andy Schmidt is in his last year of college. Taking life easy and always a saucy joke on his lips, he manages to win fellow student Mary's heart, although she's already otherwise engaged. But getting a job after college turns out much harder than expected; most directors take offense at his free interpretation of his roles. Desperate, he tries in wrestling. To avoid getting beaten up he stages the fights - and incidentally invents show-wrestling.

Intro to "The One and Only"
"The One and Only" is a romantic comedy film released in 1978, directed by Carl Reiner and written by Steve Gordon. The film stars Henry Winkler, best known for his iconic function as "The Fonz" on the tv show "Happy Days", and Kim Darby as his love interest. Embed in the late 1950s, the story focuses on a young man with imagine stardom and fame who finds his hiring an unanticipated location.

Plot Overview
Henry Winkler depicts Andy Schmidt, an egocentric and ambitious boy who graduates from college with a performing arts degree. Persuaded of his predestined fame, Andy aspires to conquer the home entertainment world. However, his goals rapidly falter in the face of reality, as he has a hard time to discover acting functions. Andy weds Mary Crawford (played by Kim Darby), the female he enjoys, but his absence of success puts a strain on their relationship.

To support his brand-new spouse and himself, Andy resorts to different tasks, including selling door-to-door cleansing materials. Throughout among his sales pitches, he unexpectedly gets involved in a scuffle with a group of wrestlers. This altercation, much to his surprise, opens up a new profession path for him: expert wrestling.

Andy's Rise in Wrestling
Regardless of having no prior wrestling experience, Andy's showmanship and flair for drama make him an immediate hit in the wrestling world. He embraces the ring persona of "The One and Only", a character he decorates with his trademark arrogance and appeal. Andy's shenanigans and theatrical performances mesmerize the audience, and he ends up being a rising star in the sport.

As Andy gets more fascinated in his wrestling career, his marital relationship begins to suffer. Mary feels overlooked and discouraged by Andy's fascination with fame and the fumbling persona that appears to be taking control of his life. Despite the turmoil, their love continues, and the couple deals with the obstacle of fixing up Andy's brand-new career with their relationship.

Character Development and Themes
"The One and Only" is as much a story about fame and ambition as it has to do with love and personal development. Throughout the movie, Andy Schmidt's character establishes from an overly positive and rather shallow boy to somebody who finds out the value of hard work, dedication, and the significance of personal relationships over professional recognition.

The motion picture also touches on styles of disillusionment with the American Dream and the space in between expectations and reality. Andy's journey from an aspiring actor to a wrestler-- an occupation he had never ever thought about and at first looked down upon-- showcases the unpredictability of life and the need to adjust to new possibilities.

Conclusion and Reception
"The One and Only" is a movie that integrates humor, love, and sports home entertainment. It offers a satirical take a look at the search for fame and takes a look at the personal expenses connected with it. While the movie wasn't an enormous hit at package workplace, it has gained a cult following throughout the years for its wacky appeal and earnest efficiencies.

Henry Winkler's portrayal of the adorable yet egotistical lead character adds a layer of intricacy to what may otherwise be a one-dimensional character. The film's mix of slapstick comedy, heartwarming love, and wrestling action makes sure that there's something in it for a wide selection of audiences, making "The One and Only" a special and entertaining cinematic experience from the late 70s age.

Top Cast

  • Henry Winkler (small)
    Henry Winkler
    Andy Schmidt
  • Kim Darby (small)
    Kim Darby
    Mary Crawford
  • Gene Saks (small)
    Gene Saks
    Sidney Seltzer
  • William Daniels (small)
    William Daniels
    Mr. Crawford
  • Harold Gould (small)
    Harold Gould
    Hector Moses
  • Polly Holliday (small)
    Polly Holliday
    Mrs. Crawford
  • HervĂ© Villechaize (small)
    Hervé Villechaize
    Milton Miller
  • Bill Baldwin (small)
    Bill Baldwin
    Announcer in Des Moines
  • Anthony Battaglia
    Little Andy
  • Ed Begley Jr. (small)
    Ed Begley Jr.
    Arnold - The King
  • Peter Brocco (small)
    Peter Brocco
    Autograph Hound