What a Way to Go! 1964
"What A Cast!... What A Past!... What A Show!..."
In the flashy, star-studded comedy What a Way to Go! (1964), directed by J. Lee Thompson, Shirley MacLaine takes center stage as a woman whose four marriages become the stuff of legend—each ending with her husbands' untimely demises, all driven by a relentless quest for wealth.
Director: J. Lee Thompson
Cast
Shirley MacLaine
Louisa May Foster
Paul Newman
Larry Flint
Robert Mitchum
Rod Anderson Jr.
Dean Martin
Leonard Crawley
Gene Kelly
Pinky Benson
Robert Cummings
Dr. Victor Stephanson
Dick Van Dyke
Edgar Hopper
Reginald Gardiner
Painter
Margaret Dumont
Mrs. Foster
Lou Nova
Trentino
Frequently Asked Questions
What is What a Way to Go! (1964) about?
The film follows a woman whose four husbands all meet untimely ends under mysterious circumstances, each succumbing to their own obsessive pursuit of wealth. As she recounts her turbulent romantic history, the story unfolds as a darkly comedic exploration of ambition, fate, and the price of success.
Who directed What a Way to Go!?
J. Lee Thompson directed What a Way to Go!. Known for his versatility across genres, Thompson brings a dynamic touch to this comedic yet poignant narrative.
Who stars in What a Way to Go!?
The film features an all-star cast led by Shirley MacLaine, Paul Newman, Robert Mitchum, Dean Martin, and Gene Kelly, creating a powerhouse lineup that defines the romantic comedy classic.
Is What a Way to Go! (1964) worth watching?
Absolutely—this 1964 comedy blends sharp humor with a clever premise and an iconic cast, making it a delightful throwback for fans of classic cinema. While it may not break new cinematic ground, its charm and star power keep it entertaining, especially for those who appreciate witty, old-Hollywood storytelling.
How long is What a Way to Go!?
What a Way to Go! runs for 111 minutes, offering a brisk yet satisfying runtime packed with laughs, drama, and unforgettable performances.
🎥 Trailer
About What a Way to Go! (1964) — A Star-Studded Comedy About Love, Luck, and Loot
In the flashy, star-studded comedy What a Way to Go! (1964), directed by J. Lee Thompson, Shirley MacLaine takes center stage as a woman whose four marriages become the stuff of legend—each ending with her husbands' untimely demises, all driven by a relentless quest for wealth. This satirical romp blends sharp wit with the golden-age glamour of the 1960s, where romance and ambition collide in a series of exuberant, tragicomic turns. MacLaine's charismatic performance anchors a stellar ensemble cast that includes Paul Newman, Robert Mitchum, Dean Martin, and Gene Kelly, as the film skewers materialism with infectious charm and mordant humor.
The story unfolds as a series of flashbacks, revealing how MacLaine's character navigates love, loss, and fortune in a world where money often comes at a deadly price. Thompson's direction infuses the narrative with vibrant energy, while the film's mix of slapstick comedy and poignant reflection makes it a standout in the genre. Whether you're drawn in by the all-star lineup or the biting social commentary, What a Way to Go! delivers a uniquely entertaining escape into an era of glittering excess and heartfelt storytelling.
