Murphy's Romance (1985)

February 7, 2025 10:28 AM

Emma moves to a ranch with her son after a divorce and befriends the older Murphy, but things turn complicated when her ex shows up.

There was a Twitter thread asking “What screen version of masculinity would you show to growing boys?” I chose James Garner in this movie.

posted by Lemkin (5 comments total)

Ooo, good choice! I just rewatched this about a year ago, for the first time in several decades (since it was a regular feature on the cable channels I guess) - it's a pretty solid little dramedy, w/ Garner not having to stretch his established Rockford persona too much to fit, and Sally Field in top form.
posted by Pedantzilla at 11:44 AM on February 7 [1 favorite]

I remember when this came out, one of my lit professors (whose opinion I valued) said it was the type of movie you used to be able to see regularly, but that just weren't made anymore. I liked the movie but didn't really get what he meant - now, at 60, I get it.

There is absolutely nothing innovative or new in this movie, but the casting is spot-on and the characters all feel real.

and yes, we should all hope to meet James Garner's version of masculinity in this film.
posted by jkosmicki at 12:34 PM on February 7 [2 favorites]

This is one of my favorite movies of all time. James Garner is so charming and handsome in it. For 10-year-old me, this combination of romance and horses was irresistible.
posted by gladly at 6:06 PM on February 7 [3 favorites]

My mom's favorite movie star (and lemme tell ya, she has a VERY SIMILAR PERSONALITY) is Sally Field, and James Garner is her favorite movie dude. So I've seen this movie, but am still boggled that it's not her favorite of all time given the casting. It's quiet and sweet, but maybe doesn't stick in the head as much as a "romance."
posted by jenfullmoon at 8:44 AM on February 8 [2 favorites]

Mom had this taped, so I saw it often way back when. In retrospect, this is a good movie that I remember fondly. And I find it notable for being one of Corey Haim's early serious roles.

And I agree. Murphy is an excellent example of masculinity.
posted by Stuka at 6:23 PM on February 8