So Fine

Broadly-written and directed comedy about a professor of American Literature who is forced to join his manufacturer-father's dress business in New York City after dad falls into debt with loan sharks. As a Hollywood lothario who first gained recognition in 1964 as part of TV's "Peyton Place"--playing the resident heartthrob--Ryan O'Neal later parlayed that same appeal in the 1970 hit romantic-tragedy "Love Story", so it's rather amazing the actor was then typecast as a befuddled square who is nervous and unsure around women (this following his success in 1972's "What's Up, Doc?"). O'Neal doesn't really fit the role; his clumsiness isn't forced, yet the star doesn't have the innate grace for physical comedy (he's too self-conscious and mock-innocent). The film has one great gag (split jeans), and a funny follow-up (a TV commercial promoting the jeans with see-through plastic on both cheeks), but the screwball hijinks in the boudoir never raise a laugh. *1/2 from ****

Having never been a Ryan O'Neal fan, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed "So Fine". I'm sure a great supporting cast helped (especially Jack Warden). We travel from the Ivy Halls of University life to the garment district of New York City, from clothing factory to an opera performance. Throw in a little infidelity, the "mob", and a new clothing fad, and you have a roller coaster ride of a film. Oh, and some advice, never date a woman whose last relationship was with Richard Kiel. He's the jealous (and angry) type.

One thing I never understood. The accidental creation of the jeans (that led to fame and fortune), never having made it to a real world fad. They consisted of jeans with cut-outs on the seats of the pants, with clear plastic instead of denim material. It's a great look! They may have seemed a bit risque in those days or more of a costume but no more. Anyone who has been to a beach or a pool lately will consider them tame. It may be an idea whose time has come........

Ryan O'Neal gives a weak, forgettable performance, but "So Fine" is saved by Jack Warden's excellence as the beleaguered garment manufacturer. Mariangela Melato is extremely sexy, while Richard Kiel is extremely intimidating as Melato's jealous husband. Unfortunately, whenever O'Neal is on screen, which is often, the film grinds to a halt. If you enjoyed Jack Warden in "Used Cars", this is a must see. The writing is a mixed bag, though at times surprisingly clever (the see through jeans). There are also some slapstick scenes that fall flat. If Alan Arkin had been cast in Ryan O'Neal's part, this could have been a classic. - MERK

When I saw this movie, I laughed "sew" hard I split my pants! I mean it! As a member of a family in that's been in the clothing business for three generations, I think I'm qualified to say that this is the most realistic depiction of the tailor industry that I have ever seen. And it's "sew" funny becuase its true! The best part is when Ryan O'Neil walks around in those giant pants. I never saw anything "sew" funny in my whole life! Even if you don't really like tailor movies that much, you should still watch "Sew Fine" as soon as you can.

They should make more movies like this one.

'So Fine'(1981) Absolutely hysterical comedy about a college professor forced by one- syllable mobster( played perfectly by 7'2'' giant Richard Kiel)to join his manufacturer father in the garment industry and inadvertently invents see-through jeans that become a national rage. Ryan O'Neal( believe it or not) is very good as the flustered professor and the great Jack Warden as the father, all but steals the film. Non- stop laughs for 90 minutes