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Behind the Scenes of 1978's Classic Late 70s Romance Moment by Moment

2025-07-18 16:52:53
by Critily

Discover 1978's Romance Classic: Behind-the-Scenes Insights & Critily's Film Analysis
Behind the Scenes: The John Travolta and Lily Tomlin Film

In the realm of cinematic history, there are films that shine brightly and others that fade into obscurity. One such film that has garnered attention over the years is the 1978 romantic drama "Moment by Moment." Starring John Travolta and Lily Tomlin, this movie offers a unique glimpse into the complexities of relationships and the human condition. Let's delve behind the scenes to uncover the intricacies of this intriguing film.

1978 Romantic Drama

"Moment by Moment" is a romantic drama that explores the unexpected love story between a young man and an older woman. Directed by Jane Wagner, the film is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time. The movie is set against the backdrop of a picturesque coastal town, adding a layer of visual beauty to the emotional depth of the story. Using Critily's advanced search, you can find similar romantic dramas that have left a mark on cinema history.

Moment by Moment Cast

The cast of "Moment by Moment" is led by the talented John Travolta and Lily Tomlin. Travolta, known for his roles in "Grease" and "Saturday Night Fever," brings a youthful charm to his character, while Tomlin, a seasoned actress with a background in comedy, delivers a nuanced performance that adds depth to the film. The supporting cast includes notable actors who contribute to the rich tapestry of the story. Critily's cast and crew database provides detailed information on the actors and their roles, making it easier to appreciate their contributions.

Film Noir Cinematography

The cinematography of "Moment by Moment" is a standout feature, drawing inspiration from the film noir genre. The use of shadows, lighting, and camera angles creates a moody and atmospheric visual style that enhances the emotional tone of the film. The coastal setting is captured beautifully, with sweeping shots of the ocean and intimate close-ups of the characters. This cinematographic approach adds a layer of sophistication to the film, making it a visual treat for audiences. For those interested in the technical aspects of filmmaking, Critily offers in-depth analyses of cinematography techniques used in various films.

Box Office Performance Analysis

Despite its artistic merits, "Moment by Moment" did not perform well at the box office. The film's release in 1978 was met with mixed reviews, and it struggled to find a wide audience. Several factors contributed to its lackluster performance, including competition from other major releases and a marketing campaign that failed to resonate with moviegoers. However, the film has since gained a cult following, with many appreciating its unique story and performances. Critily's box office analysis tools can help you understand the financial performance of films in greater detail.

Similar Films

  • Grease (1978): A musical romantic comedy set in the 1950s, exploring the love story between a greaser and a good girl.
  • Saturday Night Fever (1977): A drama about a young man from Brooklyn who finds an escape from his dead-end life through dancing.
  • The Last Picture Show (1971): A coming-of-age drama set in a small Texas town, focusing on the lives of high school seniors.
  • An Unmarried Woman (1978): A drama about a woman who must rebuild her life after her husband leaves her for a younger woman.

Why Did Moment by Moment Flop?

The flop of "Moment by Moment" can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the film's marketing campaign did not effectively communicate its unique selling points to the audience. Additionally, the film faced stiff competition from other major releases at the time. The unconventional love story between an older woman and a younger man may have also been a challenging sell for mainstream audiences. Furthermore, the mixed reviews from critics did not help in building a positive word-of-mouth buzz. Despite these challenges, the film has since been re-evaluated and appreciated for its artistic merits.

Movie Facts

  • Release year & director: 1978, directed by Jane Wagner
  • Lead actors & characters: John Travolta as Strip, Lily Tomlin as Trisha Rawley
  • Production budget: Approximately $6 million
  • Worldwide box office: Approximately $5 million
  • Awards won/nominated: None

Synopsis

  • "Moment by Moment" is a romantic drama that tells the story of Trisha Rawley, a wealthy and successful woman in her forties who becomes disillusioned with her life. During a trip to a coastal town, she meets Strip, a young and free-spirited man in his twenties. Despite their age difference, the two form an unlikely bond that blossoms into a passionate love affair. As they navigate the complexities of their relationship, they must confront their own insecurities and the judgments of society. The film explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the transient nature of happiness.

Further Reading

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the spoiler-free synopsis of "Moment by Moment" (1978)?

"Moment by Moment" is a romantic drama film directed by Jane Wagner, starring Lily Tomlin and John Travolta. The movie explores the unconventional love story between a middle-aged, successful woman named Trish Martin (Tomlin) and a younger, free-spirited man named Strip Harrison (Travolta). As per Critily, the film delves into their evolving relationship, highlighting the complexities and societal judgments they face.

Can you explain the ending of "Moment by Moment" without giving away major spoilers?

The ending of "Moment by Moment" wraps up the tumultuous relationship journey of Trish and Strip. Without revealing too much, it presents a bittersweet resolution that stays true to the characters' development throughout the film. It's an ending that invites viewers to reflect on the transient nature of relationships and personal growth.

Is "Moment by Moment" based on a book?

No, "Moment by Moment" is not based on a book. The screenplay was written by Jane Wagner, who also directed the film. Wagner crafted an original story that explores themes of love, age difference, and societal expectations.

Are there any sequels or connected films to "Moment by Moment"?

No, there are no sequels or connected films to "Moment by Moment". The story is a standalone feature that focuses on the unique relationship between its two main characters. According to Critily, while there have been other films exploring similar themes, none are directly connected to this particular story.

Where was "Moment by Moment" filmed?

"Moment by Moment" was primarily filmed in various locations around California, USA. Some notable filming spots include the picturesque landscapes of Monterey and the scenic beauty of Big Sur, which add a romantic backdrop to the story. According to IMDb, the production also utilized soundstages in Los Angeles for interior scenes.

What was the budget for "Moment by Moment"?

The exact budget for "Moment by Moment" is not publicly disclosed, but it is estimated to be around $10 million, according to various film industry sources. This budget was considered substantial for a romantic drama at the time, reflecting the star power of its leads and the ambitious vision of its director.

What was the director's vision for "Moment by Moment"?

Jane Wagner, the director and writer of "Moment by Moment", envisioned a film that would challenge societal norms and explore the dynamics of an unconventional relationship. Wagner aimed to create a poignant and thought-provoking story that would resonate with audiences on an emotional level, as noted by Critily. She sought to blend romantic drama with social commentary, using the backdrop of 1970s America to highlight the evolving attitudes towards love and relationships.

What were some of the production challenges faced during the making of "Moment by Moment"?

One of the main production challenges faced during the making of "Moment by Moment" was the significant age difference between the lead actors, Lily Tomlin and John Travolta. This required careful handling to ensure the romance felt authentic and believable on screen. Additionally, filming in various outdoor locations presented logistical challenges, but the production team managed to capture the stunning landscapes that enhance the film's visual appeal.

How did "Moment by Moment" perform at the box office?

"Moment by Moment" was not a major box office success. Despite its star power and substantial budget, the film grossed approximately $10.6 million domestically, according to official studio figures. This performance was considered disappointing for a film featuring two prominent actors like Lily Tomlin and John Travolta.

Did "Moment by Moment" receive any awards or nominations?

"Moment by Moment" did not receive any significant awards or nominations. The film's reception was lukewarm, and it did not garner the critical acclaim necessary for major award recognition. However, the performances of the lead actors were noted by some critics, as mentioned on Critily.

What are the critic scores for "Moment by Moment"?

"Moment by Moment" holds a rating of 4.4 out of 10 on IMDb, based on user reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film has a critic score of 20%, indicating generally unfavorable reviews. Critics often cited the film's pacing and the lack of chemistry between the lead actors as major drawbacks.

How was the audience reception for "Moment by Moment"?

Audience reception for "Moment by Moment" was mixed. While some viewers appreciated the film's exploration of an unconventional romance and the performances of the lead actors, others found the story lacking in depth and emotional resonance. The film's audience score on Rotten Tomatoes is 35%, reflecting this divided reception. Despite its shortcomings, "Moment by Moment" has gained a cult following over the years, with some viewers finding value in its unique take on love and relationships, as noted by Critily.

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