Sheila Levine Is Dead and Living in New York

I saw this on television in the early eighties on late night television. Strange but interesting film. As noted in the synopsis on this page, the song "Love me, oh love me, baby won't you love me" stays with you FOREVER. It's the one thing I remember most about the movie, that and the scene where Roy tells Sheila about wetting his pants in gradeschool... Odd film.

I haven't seen this movie in years but I remember it well and have been looking for it on video. So far no luck. Jeanie Berlin is so fabulous as Sheila. Of course if you are a New York single jewish woman (as I am) you would relate to her better, but she is just so perfectly "looser finds herself". The story is much different than that of the book but some of the character remain. But the movie is so 70's it's fun. And you can't help but fall in love with and root for Sheila. Someone out there get this to video!

This movie is funny in places, bitter in some, too. The song they play (over and over) when she's at the party will stick in your head so far you'll need a songectomy.

Jeanne Berlin (daughter of Elaine May) is perfect in this movie! What a funny, brilliant woman! The movie reminds me of My Big Fat Greek Wedding. All women are not beautiful and rich. You go girl! Another wonderful aspect of this movie is an early role for Roy Scheider who plays her love interest. My favorite part is the main character's job at a children's recording studio, Wha Wha Records. Everyone does a rather mundane job until a musician needs "backup". All the employees jump up and become the chorus. Gail Parent is one of my favorite writers (remember Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman on TV?) and she develops wonderfully real women in her comedies. Great movie for then and now.

"Sheila Levine Is Dead and Living in New York" is a quirky and dark romantic comedy that offers a unique take on the typical love story. With a runtime of 113 minutes, the 1975 film, directed by Sidney J. Furie, follows the life of a shy young woman, Sheila Levine (played by Jeannie Berlin), who moves to the bustling city of New York and finds herself in a complicated love triangle.

Based on the novel by Gail Parent, the film takes a different direction, offering a romantic drama with comedic elements. The story focuses on Sheila's journey as she navigates life in the big city, finding herself drawn to her roommate's boyfriend. The film effectively captures the challenges and emotions of a young woman striving to find her place and happiness in a new and fast-paced environment.

While the film has its charming moments, it falls short of being a truly memorable cinematic experience. The tone is inconsistent, veering from light-hearted to sentimental, and at times, confusing. The criticism by Pauline Kael of The New Yorker sums it up: "A confused, part-liberated rehash of old Hollywood attitudes." The film struggles to find a balance between its comedic and dramatic elements, resulting in a somewhat jarring viewing experience.

However, the film is not without its merits. Berlin's performance as Sheila is commendable, conveying a range of emotions with subtlety and depth. The film also captures the essence of 1970s New York, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of the city's history.

Overall, "Sheila Levine Is Dead and Living in New York" is an interesting yet flawed take on the romantic comedy genre. While it has its moments of charm and emotion, the inconsistent tone and confusing narrative let it down.