**Kiss Me Goodbye (film)**
**Definition:**
*Kiss Me Goodbye* is a 1982 American romantic comedy film directed by Robert Mulligan, starring Sally Field, James Caan, and Jeff Bridges. The film explores themes of love, loss, and moving on, blending elements of fantasy and romance.
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# Kiss Me Goodbye (film)
*Kiss Me Goodbye* is a 1982 American romantic comedy directed by Robert Mulligan and written by Ronald Bass. The film stars Sally Field as a widow who is visited by the ghost of her deceased husband, played by Jeff Bridges, complicating her budding romance with a new suitor, portrayed by James Caan. The movie combines elements of fantasy and romance to explore themes of grief, acceptance, and the complexities of moving forward after loss.
## Plot
The story centers on Kay, a young widow living in San Francisco who is struggling to move on after the sudden death of her husband, Larry. Kay is beginning to rebuild her life and has started dating Bill, a charming and persistent man who hopes to win her heart. However, Kay’s life takes an unexpected turn when Larry’s ghost appears, refusing to leave her side.
Larry’s spirit is both protective and possessive, interfering with Kay’s attempts to develop a new relationship. The ghost’s presence creates a series of comedic and poignant situations as Kay tries to balance her loyalty to Larry’s memory with her desire to embrace a new future. The film explores the emotional turmoil of letting go and the challenges of accepting change.
As the story unfolds, Kay must confront her feelings for both men and decide whether she can truly say goodbye to her past and open herself to new love. The film culminates in a resolution that blends humor, fantasy, and heartfelt emotion.
## Cast
– **Sally Field** as Kay
– **James Caan** as Bill
– **Jeff Bridges** as Larry
– **Carole King** as Marge
– **Paul Dooley** as Dr. Samuels
– **Pat Corley** as Mr. McGuire
Sally Field’s performance as Kay was noted for its warmth and emotional depth, while Jeff Bridges brought a charismatic and playful energy to the role of Larry’s ghost. James Caan’s portrayal of Bill added a grounded and sincere counterpoint to the supernatural elements of the story.
## Production
### Development
The screenplay for *Kiss Me Goodbye* was written by Ronald Bass, who sought to create a romantic comedy with a supernatural twist. The story was inspired by themes of love and loss, aiming to explore how people cope with grief and the process of moving on.
Director Robert Mulligan, known for his work on films such as *To Kill a Mockingbird* (1962), was drawn to the project for its blend of humor and emotional complexity. Mulligan’s direction emphasized character development and the interplay between the real and the supernatural.
### Filming
Principal photography took place primarily in San Francisco, California, utilizing the city’s iconic locations to enhance the film’s romantic atmosphere. The production incorporated both on-location shoots and studio sets to create a believable yet whimsical environment.
The special effects used to depict Larry’s ghost were modest by modern standards but effective in conveying the ethereal presence without overshadowing the story’s emotional core.
### Music
The film’s score was composed by Dave Grusin, whose music underscored the romantic and comedic elements of the narrative. The soundtrack complemented the film’s tone, balancing lightheartedness with moments of introspection.
## Themes
*Kiss Me Goodbye* explores several key themes:
– **Grief and Acceptance:** The film delves into the emotional process of coping with the death of a loved one and the difficulty of moving forward. Larry’s ghost symbolizes the lingering presence of loss and the challenge of letting go.
– **Love and Moving On:** The narrative examines the complexities of opening oneself to new relationships after trauma, highlighting the tension between honoring the past and embracing the future.
– **Supernatural and Reality:** By blending fantasy elements with a grounded romantic story, the film invites viewers to consider the ways in which memories and emotions can feel as real as physical presence.
## Reception
Upon its release, *Kiss Me Goodbye* received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the performances of the lead actors, particularly Sally Field’s nuanced portrayal of a woman caught between past and present. The film’s blend of comedy and fantasy was noted as charming but occasionally uneven.
Critics pointed out that while the premise was original and engaging, the execution sometimes lacked depth, with the supernatural elements not fully integrated into the emotional narrative. However, the film found an appreciative audience among viewers who enjoyed its lighthearted approach to serious themes.
## Legacy
Though not a major box office success, *Kiss Me Goodbye* has maintained a modest following over the years, appreciated for its unique take on romantic comedy and its exploration of grief through a fantastical lens. The film is often cited as an example of early 1980s cinema that experimented with genre blending.
The performances of Sally Field, James Caan, and Jeff Bridges continue to be recognized as highlights, showcasing their versatility and chemistry. The film also contributed to the careers of its principal cast and crew, with Ronald Bass later achieving acclaim as a screenwriter.
## Conclusion
*Kiss Me Goodbye* stands as a distinctive romantic comedy that combines humor, fantasy, and emotional insight. Its exploration of love, loss, and the supernatural offers a thoughtful reflection on the human experience of grief and the possibility of new beginnings. While it may not have achieved widespread acclaim, the film remains a noteworthy entry in the genre for its heartfelt storytelling and memorable performances.
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**Meta Description:**
*Kiss Me Goodbye* is a 1982 romantic comedy film directed by Robert Mulligan, starring Sally Field, James Caan, and Jeff Bridges. The film blends fantasy and romance to explore themes of love, loss, and moving on.