Released in 1980, How to Beat the High Cost of Living is a sharp and satirical film that explores the struggles of middle-class Americans trying to make ends meet in a time of economic uncertainty. Directed by Robert Scheerer and starring Jane Curtin, Susan Saint James, and Jessica Lange, the film provides a humorous yet insightful look at financial woes and the lengths to which people will go to alleviate their burdens. With its blend of comedy and drama, How to Beat the High Cost of Living remains a relevant and thought-provoking piece of cinema that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Plot Overview
How to Beat the High Cost of Living centers on three women—Ellen (Jane Curtin), Carol (Susan Saint James), and Jane (Jessica Lange)—who are struggling with financial difficulties in a suburban setting. Each woman faces her own set of challenges, and their stories intertwine in a plot that delves into themes of friendship, desperation, and resourcefulness.
Ellen, a housewife who feels the strain of her husband’s stagnant salary, is dealing with the mounting pressures of everyday expenses. Her husband, Larry (Michael Lerner), is a well-meaning but ineffective provider, leaving Ellen to juggle the household finances and manage the family budget. Frustrated by her inability to make ends meet and feeling trapped in her financial constraints, Ellen becomes increasingly anxious and desperate.
Carol, a single mother working a dead-end job, is trying to balance her work responsibilities with raising her children. Her job does not pay nearly enough to cover her expenses, and she finds herself constantly struggling to provide for her family. Carol’s financial situation is made worse by the lack of support from her ex-husband, adding to her stress and sense of helplessness.
Jane, a young and ambitious woman, is working hard to advance in her career but is continually thwarted by a lack of financial stability. She dreams of a better life and is constantly seeking ways to improve her situation. However, her aspirations are often undermined by the harsh realities of her financial constraints.
The film’s central plot revolves around the three women’s decision to participate in an unconventional plan to address their financial woes. Ellen, Carol, and Jane decide to rob a bank to solve their money problems. This drastic step is fueled by their shared frustration and desperation, as well as their belief that traditional methods of financial management are not sufficient to overcome their struggles.
The robbery plan is devised with a mix of careful planning and impulsive decisions, reflecting the characters’ complex mix of anxiety, creativity, and determination. As the women prepare for the heist, their relationships with each other are tested, and they confront their own moral dilemmas and fears. The film portrays their journey with humor and poignancy, highlighting the impact of their actions on their lives and relationships.
The robbery itself is a chaotic and comedic affair, with the women’s inexperience and nerves leading to a series of mishaps and misunderstandings. Despite their best efforts, the heist does not go as planned, resulting in a series of unexpected complications. The aftermath of the robbery forces the women to confront the consequences of their actions and reevaluate their choices.
Resolution: In the end, the film’s resolution provides a sense of closure for the characters as they come to terms with their financial situation and the consequences of their decision. The women’s experiences lead to personal growth and a renewed understanding of their own resilience and resourcefulness. The film concludes on a note of hope and redemption, emphasizing the importance of friendship and perseverance in overcoming life’s challenges.
Themes and Analysis
How to Beat the High Cost of Living delves into several significant themes, including economic hardship, the lengths people will go to solve their problems, and the power of friendship. The film uses its comedic and dramatic elements to explore these themes in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Economic Hardship: The film provides a candid depiction of the financial struggles faced by ordinary people. Ellen, Carol, and Jane each represent different facets of economic hardship, from the pressures of managing a household budget to the challenges of single parenthood and career advancement. The film’s portrayal of these struggles highlights the pervasive nature of financial difficulties and the impact they have on individuals and families.
Desperation and Resourcefulness: The characters’ decision to rob a bank is a dramatic illustration of desperation and the lengths people will go to when faced with financial crisis. The film examines how financial stress can lead people to make extreme choices and the consequences of those decisions. The women’s plan to rob the bank reflects their sense of hopelessness and their belief that traditional solutions are inadequate for addressing their problems.
Friendship and Support: Throughout the film, the bond between the three women is a central element of the story. Their friendship provides emotional support and a sense of solidarity as they navigate their financial struggles. The film emphasizes the importance of having a support network and how relationships can help individuals cope with challenges and find strength in difficult times.
Moral Dilemmas: The film also explores the moral implications of the women’s decision to commit a crime. As they prepare for the robbery, they grapple with their own ethical concerns and the potential impact of their actions on others. The film raises questions about the morality of desperate actions and the ways in which individuals justify their choices when faced with adversity.
Characters and Performances
The characters in How to Beat the High Cost of Living are portrayed with depth and nuance, contributing to the film’s engaging narrative. The performances by Jane Curtin, Susan Saint James, and Jessica Lange are particularly noteworthy, each bringing their own unique qualities to their roles.
Jane Curtin as Ellen delivers a compelling portrayal of a woman overwhelmed by financial pressures. Curtin’s performance captures Ellen’s frustration and vulnerability, making her character relatable and empathetic. Ellen’s journey from desperation to self-discovery is portrayed with authenticity and emotional depth.
Susan Saint James as Carol provides a strong and sympathetic depiction of a single mother struggling to provide for her family. Saint James’s performance highlights Carol’s resilience and determination, as well as her moments of vulnerability. Her character’s struggles and triumphs are portrayed with a sense of realism and compassion.
Jessica Lange as Jane brings a sense of youthful ambition and determination to her role. Lange’s portrayal of Jane reflects her character’s drive to improve her situation and her internal conflicts regarding her financial struggles. Jane’s journey is depicted with a blend of humor and poignancy, adding depth to her character’s arc.
Cinematic Style and Direction
Directed by Robert Scheerer, How to Beat the High Cost of Living is characterized by its blend of comedy and drama. Scheerer’s direction balances the film’s humorous elements with its more serious themes, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The film’s visual style reflects its suburban setting, with a focus on the everyday environments of the characters. The cinematography captures the mundanity of their lives and the contrast between their financial struggles and their aspirations. The use of color and lighting contributes to the film’s overall tone, enhancing its comedic and dramatic moments.
The soundtrack of the film complements its narrative, adding to the emotional impact of the story. The music enhances the film’s themes and helps to underscore the characters’ experiences, further enriching the viewing experience.
Legacy and Impact
How to Beat the High Cost of Living has remained relevant over the years due to its exploration of universal themes and its portrayal of economic struggles. The film’s blend of humor and drama continues to resonate with audiences, providing a thoughtful commentary on financial hardship and the lengths people will go to overcome their challenges.
The film’s depiction of friendship and support in the face of adversity has also contributed to its lasting appeal. The characters’ journey highlights the importance of relationships and the ways in which people can find strength and resilience through their connections with others.
Additionally, the film’s portrayal of financial struggles remains pertinent in contemporary society, where economic issues continue to affect many people. How to Beat the High Cost of Living serves as a reminder of the ongoing relevance of these issues and the impact they have on individuals and communities.
Conclusion
How to Beat the High Cost of Living is a film that combines humor and drama to offer a compelling exploration of financial struggles and personal resilience. Through its engaging characters, insightful themes, and memorable performances, the film provides a thoughtful and entertaining look at the challenges faced by ordinary people. Directed by Robert Scheerer and featuring standout performances by Jane Curtin, Susan Saint James, and Jessica Lange, the film remains a timeless and relevant piece of cinema that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Whether through its depiction of financial desperation, its exploration of moral dilemmas, or its celebration of friendship and support, How to Beat the High Cost of Living offers valuable insights and enduring appeal. The film stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of cinema to address complex and relatable issues with humor and heart.
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