Paper Moon (1973)

Top 25 - 1970 to Today

Paper Moon (1973) is an American comedy-drama film directed by Peter Bogdanovich and starring Ryan O’Neal and Tatum O’Neal, who were father and daughter in real life. The film’s screenplay was written by Alvin Sargent, based on the 1971 novel Addie Pray by Joe David Brown. The story follows a con man and his young daughter as they travel through the Midwest during the Great Depression, swindling people out of their money.

Director: Peter Bogdanovich: The Last Picture Show (1971), What’s Up, Doc? (1972), Saint Jack (1979), Texasville (1982)

Writer: Alvin Sargent: Julia (1977), Ordinary People (1980), The Goodbye Girl (1977), Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)

Release Date: December 28, 1973

Domestic Box Office: $46.5 million

Paper Moon (1973)

Top 5 Cast:

  • Ryan O’Neal as Moses Pray
  • Tatum O’Neal as Addie Loggins
  • Madeline Kahn as Trixie Delight
  • John Hillerman as Sheriff Henderson
  • Jack Albertson as W.P. “Sarge” O’Shea

“Imogene, what do you suppose Miss Trixie’d do if somebody offered her $25 to put out.” – Addie Loggins

Critical Reviews:

  • Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times gave the film 4 out of 4 stars, calling it “a charming and funny film that is also a poignant portrait of a father and daughter.”
  • Pauline Kael of The New Yorker called the film “a delightful comedy” and praised O’Neal and O’Neal’s performances.
  • Vincent Canby of The New York Times called the film “a minor classic” and praised O’Neal and O’Neal’s performances.
  • David Denby of New York magazine called the film “a charming and funny film” and praised O’Neal and O’Neal’s performances.

Cinematic Importance: Paper Moon is a significant film for several reasons. First, it is a well-made and well-acted film that tells a compelling story. Second, it is a rare example of a film that was successful both critically and commercially. Third, it launched the careers of Ryan and Tatum O’Neal, who both won Academy Awards for their performances. Paper Moon is a classic film that is still enjoyed by audiences today.

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