
Something Short of Paradise 1979
"Love isn't blind... just a little nearsighted!"
In the bustling heart of 1979 New York City, *Something Short of Paradise* captures the messy, magnetic chaos of a young couple struggling to keep their love alive amid the neon glow and subway hum of urban life.
Director: David Helpern
Cast






Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Something Short of Paradise* (1979) about?
This New York-set rom-com follows a young couple whose relationship teeters between warmth and friction as they grapple with the realities of love, ambition, and compromise in the late 1970s. It's a story of connection and conflict, where every kiss feels earned and every argument stings.
Who directed *Something Short of Paradise*?
David Helpern helmed this 1979 romantic dramedy, bringing a keen eye for character dynamics and urban storytelling to the film.
Who stars in *Something Short of Paradise*?
The film features standout performances from Susan Sarandon and David Steinberg as the central couple, alongside Jean-Pierre Aumont, Marilyn Sokol, and Joe Grifasi in key roles.
Is *Something Short of Paradise* (1979) worth watching?
While it lacks a widely known rating, its blend of sharp dialogue, genuine chemistry between leads, and a nostalgic yet timeless story of love makes it a hidden gem for fans of 1970s romantic comedies and character-driven dramas.
How long is *Something Short of Paradise*?
The film runs for 87 minutes, a concise runtime that keeps the story tight and engaging for its urban rom-com premise.
Something Short of Paradise (1979): A 1970s Rom-Com with a Sharp, Honest Edge
In the bustling heart of 1979 New York City, *Something Short of Paradise* captures the messy, magnetic chaos of a young couple struggling to keep their love alive amid the neon glow and subway hum of urban life. Directed by David Helpern, this romantic dramedy blends heartfelt drama with sharp comedic wit, exploring how relationships bend under the weight of expectation and misunderstanding. With a tone that oscillates between tender and biting, the film dives into themes of intimacy, compromise, and the quiet desperation of trying to make things work when they feel just out of reach.
Susan Sarandon and David Steinberg lead the charismatic cast, their chemistry crackling with authenticity as they navigate a bond that's equal parts passion and frustration. The film's witty title hints at the imperfect clarity of love—neither blind nor flawless, but beautifully imperfect. A snapshot of a bygone era of New York's social landscape, *Something Short of Paradise* is a time capsule of romance in all its raw, unfiltered glory, perfect for fans of character-driven stories that don't shy away from the messy truth of relationships.