The Couple Takes a Wife (1972)

The Couple Takes a Wife Poster

Complications ensue when an overworked couple decides to hire a "wife" — someone who can run the household for them with complete autonomy — but she's a little too attractive for comfort.

Introduction
"The Couple Takes a Wife" is a 1972 American romantic funny movie directed by Jerry Paris and starring Bill Bixby, Myrna Loy, and Susan Clark. The motion picture is based on the novel "Saturday Adoption" by Nate Monaster. The movie focuses on a married couple who decide to employ a live-in maid to help manage their busy lives, which eventually results in unpredicted issues and brand-new experiments in their relationship.

Plot
Jeff and Marie Evans (played by Bill Bixby and Susan Clark) are a modern-day married couple living in California. Jeff is a successful marketing executive, while Marie is a hectic fashion designer. Due to their stressful work schedules, they barely have the time to invest together and keep their home. To solve this issue, they decide to employ a live-in maid and market for the position.

The ad brings in the attention of several candidates, including the attractive and enthusiastic Vera Madison (played by Myrna Loy). Vera not just surprises the couple with her honest mindset however likewise impresses them with her outstanding housekeeping abilities and easy chemistry. They accept employ her, and she relocates with the couple.

As time goes on, Jeff and Marie find that having Vera around allows them to focus more on their work and also assists strengthen their marriage. Vera rapidly becomes an important part of their lives, providing stability and order to their stressful schedules. Nevertheless, as they grow closer to Vera, Jeff and Marie begin to question the traditional functions and expectations that society troubles couples.

One day, Jeff's mom (played by Lucille Benson) all of a sudden shows up for a visit and is surprised to discover that the couple has a live-in housemaid. She believes that this plan breaks the appropriate moral worths and expresses her displeasure. This leads Jeff and Marie to examine their unconventional setup further.

The Twist
Things take an unforeseen turn when Jeff and Marie discover that Vera had formerly been in a comparable live-in arrangement with another couple, who ultimately divorced. This revelation raises issue for Jeff and Marie as they question whether Vera's existence in their lives may be the reason for a rift in between them. They start to consider their relationship and question if they are compromising their morals to accommodate Vera in their lives.

Additionally, as Jeff and Marie continue to challenge conventional social norms, their tourist attraction towards Vera increases. They discuss and consider the concept of try out a polyamorous relationship. However, they need to browse and get rid of the judgment and prospective reaction of their friends, household, and society.

Conclusion
"The Couple Takes a Wife" is a light-hearted romantic comedy that was quite liberal and ahead of its time, thinking about the release year of 1972. The movie takes a look at the complicated dynamics and obstacles faced by contemporary couples, questioning traditional norms and social expectations while aiming to redefine the meaning of love and dedication.

Although some elements of the movie may be obsoleted by today's requirements, it still holds an appeal for those who wish to check out the intricacies of love, marital relationship, and non-traditional relationships. The film is engaging with its compelling story, witty discussions, and strong efficiencies by the lead actors, particularly Myrna Loy as the charming and enigmatic Vera.

Top Cast

  • Bill Bixby (small)
    Bill Bixby
    Jeff Hamilton
  • Paula Prentiss (small)
    Paula Prentiss
    Barbara Hamilton
  • Valerie Perrine (small)
    Valerie Perrine
    Jennifer Allen
  • Myrna Loy (small)
    Myrna Loy
    Barbara's Mother
  • Robert Goulet (small)
    Robert Goulet
    Randy Perkins
  • Nanette Fabray (small)
    Nanette Fabray
    Marion Randolph
  • Larry Storch (small)
    Larry Storch
    David
  • Mia Bendixsen
    Christy Hamilton
  • Dana Laurita
    Mindy Hamilton
  • Penny Marshall (small)
    Penny Marshall
    Paula
  • Dwan Smith (small)
    Dwan Smith
    Ginger