Elaine May’s Comedy of Discomfort

From 1967 to 1980, only 16 women made at least one feature film within the commercial US-based film industry, either as part of the studio system or as independent filmmakers. The subject of this episode, Elaine May, was one of those women. After leaving behind a tremendously successful career in comedy, Elaine began writing stage plays and screenplays. She made the jump to the director’s chair with 1971’s A NEW LEAF. May went on to direct three more films: THE HEARTBREAK KID (1972), MIKEY AND NICKY (1976), and ISHTAR (1987). We discuss all four films in this week’s episode! Check out our Patreon PATREON.COM/AVERAGEJOESHOW