The Goodbye Girl

A single mother navigates the chaos of love and family in a comedic twist of fate.

Critics broadly found the film a satisfying, witty romantic comedy elevated by Richard Dreyfuss's performance, while noting formulaic plotting and uneven opening sections.

• Paula and Elliot must share an apartment despite conflicting expectations, resentments, and personal boundaries.
• Elliot's acting career and Richard III performance shape his self-image and his relationship with Paula.
• Paula and Elliot's sharp arguments and persistent friction slowly transform into mutual regard.
• Paula protects and supports Lucy while coping with repeated abandonment and an uncertain household.

• Barefoot in the Parkromantic comedy driven by prickly banter, theatrical personalities, and an initially antagonistic couple who gradually develop affection
• Annie Hallwarm urban romantic comedy centered on mismatched adults, domestic negotiation, and witty dialogue
• California Suitebittersweet relationship comedy featuring professional performers, emotional vulnerability, and sophisticated verbal sparring

Director

Herbert Ross

Release Date

1977-11-27

Runtime

111 min

Rating

7.0 / 10 (193)

What is The Goodbye Girl about?

A recently abandoned Manhattan mother reluctantly shares her apartment with an aspiring actor, turning domestic friction into an unexpectedly tender romance.

What is The Goodbye Girl like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of The Goodbye Girl as brisk, its intensity as mild and its storytelling as easy to follow.

Is The Goodbye Girl violent?

No — Ember's analysis finds no violence in The Goodbye Girl.

What did critics think of The Goodbye Girl?

Critics broadly found the film a satisfying, witty romantic comedy elevated by Richard Dreyfuss's performance, while noting formulaic plotting and uneven opening sections.

Which films are like The Goodbye Girl?

Films with a similar feel include Barefoot in the Park, Annie Hall, and California Suite.

How long is The Goodbye Girl?

The Goodbye Girl runs 111 minutes.

Where can I watch The Goodbye Girl?

In United States, The Goodbye Girl streams on Hoopla, Plex Player, Plex Channel, Tubi TV.