The 1970s birthed some of cinema’s most daring work, yet director Hal Ashby remains surprisingly under-celebrated despite his pivotal role in the Hollywood Renaissance. Ashby, known for films like Shampoo and Being There, also helmed the darkly comedic and controversial romance Harold and Maude. The film, which often cycles in and out of streaming availability, has just landed on Pluto TV and Kanopy – a timely arrival given the recent passing of its lead actor, Bud Cort, at age 77.
The Film’s Unconventional Premise
Harold and Maude follows the bizarre courtship between Harold (Bud Cort), a wealthy 20-year-old obsessed with death, and Maude (Ruth Gordon), a free-spirited 79-year-old living in a boxcar. Harold stages increasingly elaborate, yet ineffective, suicide attempts – hanging, self-immolation, and more – while his emotionally detached mother barely registers his theatrics. The film’s black humor and unsettling premise made it an outlier even upon its 1971 release. The New York Times called the lead performances “creepy and off-putting,” but it has since garnered a devoted cult following through midnight screenings and word-of-mouth.
Why It Matters Today
The film’s enduring appeal isn’t merely nostalgia. Harold and Maude challenges conventional notions of love, aging, and purpose. Maude, a Holocaust survivor hinted at through a tattoo on her forearm, embraces life with a defiant joy that contrasts sharply with Harold’s nihilistic tendencies. The film suggests that confronting mortality – not escaping it – is the key to living authentically.
“Everyone has the right to make an ass out of themselves. You just can’t let the world judge you too much.” – Maude’s iconic line encapsulates the film’s core message: live on your own terms.
A Reflection of Its Time
It’s difficult to imagine a major studio greenlighting Harold and Maude today. Its provocative themes and unconventional romance would likely face far greater scrutiny. The film stands as a testament to a more permissive era in filmmaking, where risk-taking was rewarded and boundaries were pushed. Its blend of dark humor, existential drama, and a killer Cat Stevens soundtrack makes it a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.
Harold and Maude is currently streaming on Pluto TV and Kanopy. Catch it while you can – its fleeting presence on platforms makes each viewing feel like a rare opportunity.
