The legendary Jack Lemmon makes an outstanding directorial debut (Variety), with a script by John Paxton, in this winning comedy-drama (Leonard Maltin) that bridges the proverbial generation gap with laughter, irony an... more »d compassion. Walter Matthau delivers an OscarÂ(r)-nominated* performance in this heartwarming comedy about getting older and wiser! Joseph P. Kotcher (Matthau) is akindly, if occasionally exasperating, widower who has worn out his welcome with his son, daughter-in-law and grandson. Despite Kotch's many pearls of wisdom, he soon finds himself feeling useless andunwanted. But just when he seems destined for a retirement home, Kotch befriends a feisty, unwed, teenage mother-to-be and embarks on the unlikeliest of adventures! *1971: Actor« less
Marianne B. from MONROE CITY, MO Reviewed on 5/7/2013...
A sweet movie. Leaves you feeling good.
Movie Reviews
At last on DVD!
Steven M. Davis | North Ogden, UT USA | 05/22/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A charming film with Matthau giving an oscar-nominated performance as a fifth-wheel grandfather living with his son (Charles Aidman), daughter-in-law (Felicia Farr, aka Mrs. Jack Lemmon), and their infant son, whom Grandpa adores. Lemmon directed his pal Matthau in this film, and look for Lemmon doing a brief cameo as a sleeping bus passenger. Into Kotch's life comes Erica, the babysitter, who is forced to drop out of high school due to an unintended pregnancy, and the two strike up an unorthodox relationship (no, it's not what you're thinking). There is a riotous scene where Kotch delivers the girl's baby in the ladies' room of a gas station, and some "awww" moments throughout the film. One quirk: watch for Kotch to speak German in an Italian restaurant, Spanish in a Swiss restaurant, and French in a Mexican restaurant. Give this one a chance and you'll be rewarded."
Touching
Steven M. Davis | 12/08/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
""Kotch" is a truely wonderful film, highlighted by Walter Mattheau's performance. It starts out as a typical comedic role, but Matthau slowly turns in a tour-de-force as the film goes on. Don't judge this movie prematurely. It is not your average "old man" film. See it."
Matthau Rules!!
Steven M. Davis | 12/19/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Walter Matthau rules in this sentimental film about an elderly man who refuses to be sent to a nursing home and befriends a runaway pregnant teenager.It's a must see!!"
Kotch
Jeff Hansen | Napa Valley, Ca. United States | 08/20/2001
(4 out of 5 stars)
"A small budget film made large by the performances of Deborah Winters(Outstanding) and Walter Matthau. The first 20-30 minutes of the film is the set-up, so if your patient you will be rewarded. The story really takes off when Matthau finds new meaning in his life through Winter's(single mother) pregency. Two different generations find common ground. Must see!"