On this day September 2, 1981, They All Laughed premiered in theaters. Written and directed by Peter Bogdanovich, the romantic comedy starred Ben Gazzara, Audrey Hepburn, John Ritter, Colleen Camp, Patti Hansen, and Dorothy Stratten. The story follows a group of private detectives hired to keep watch on the wives of wealthy clients. As their investigations continue, the detectives unexpectedly become romantically involved with the very women they are supposed to be following, leading to a series of humorous and heartfelt situations.
The film was one of Audrey Hepburn’s final starring roles before stepping away from acting for several years. It is also remembered as one of the last films to feature Dorothy Stratten, whose tragic death in 1980 cast a shadow over the movie before its release. Despite receiving only a limited theatrical run, the film gradually found a wider audience through home video and television.
80s insight: They All Laughed has become well remembered for its outstanding cast, witty dialogue, and Peter Bogdanovich’s unique directing style. Today, many film fans consider it one of the most overlooked romantic comedies of the early 1980s.
