Seems Like Old Times (released on Dec. 19, 1980), reunites Chevy Chase and Goldie Hawn in a film that breathes new life into the classic screwball comedies of the 1930s. Blending sharp, rhythmic dialogue with expert physical slapstick, the film remains one of the most charming examples of a subgenre where domestic chaos and criminal mishaps collide.
The story follows Glenda Parks (Hawn), a fiercely compassionate public defender with a soft spot for stray dogs and lost causes.
Her life is perfectly orderly until her ex-husband, Nick Gardenia (Chase), a writer living in a remote cabin, is kidnapped by two criminals and forced to rob a bank.
Now a fugitive on the run, Nick seeks refuge at Glenda’s home, desperate for a place to hide while he clears his name.
The complication? Glenda is now married to Ira Parks (Charles Grodin), a straight-laced, ambitious district attorney who is gunning for the position of State Attorney General.
Glenda hides Nick in the guest room, leading to a series of frantic near-misses as she tries to feed her ex-husband while hosting formal dinners for the governor.
Seems Like Old Times is further energized by a colorful supporting cast, including the deadpan butler Chester (T.K. Carter), Judge Channing (Harold Gould), the gas station attendant (Jerry Houser) the governor of California (George Grizzard) and the skeptical Fred (Robert Guillaume).
As Ira grows increasingly suspicious of the strange noises in the attic and the vanishing dinners, the film builds to a crescendo of comedic misunderstandings that threaten Ira’s career and Glenda’s sanity.
Goldie Hawn and Chevy Chase in Seems Like Old Times (Photo/Columbia Pictures)
Reception for Seems Like Old Times
Seems Like Old Times grossed $44 million in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave the film two out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
The legacy of Seems Like Old Times is anchored in its impeccable casting, specifically the chemistry between Hawn and Chase, which had been previously established in Foul Play.
While Hawn provides the film’s radiant, manic heart and Chase delivers his signature effortless bumbling, it is often Charles Grodin’s performance that is cited by critics as the film’s secret weapon.
Grodin’s slow-burn exasperation and brilliant “straight man” delivery set a standard for comedic foils that influenced a generation of sitcoms and feature films.
Beyond the performances, the film is remembered as one of Neil Simon’s most successful transitions from stage to screen, maintaining his legendary wit while embracing the kinetic energy of a chase movie.
By capturing the perfect balance of suburban normalcy and farcical absurdity, Seems Like Old Times has earned its place as a perennial favorite for those who appreciate comedy that is as smart as it is silly.
