Going in Style

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Going in Style

PG

Released Dec 25, 1979

1h 36m

Comedy

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Tomatometer

Popcornmeter

82%

Tomatometer

11 Reviews

75%

Popcornmeter

1,000+ Ratings

Senior citizens Willie (Lee Strasberg), Al (Art Carney) and Joe (George Burns) lead lives of uninterrupted boredom until they alight upon the idea of robbing a bank together. Though none of them has a criminal record, they nevertheless find the planning of the caper an energizing and satisfying experience all around. Even more surprisingly, they pull it off -- but no sooner do they make off with the loot than their age begins to catch up with them.

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Trevor Johnston

Time Out

A trio of contrasting personalities, the veterans bring both a mischievous wit and a sense of subdued anger to a familiar comic plotline, and the film achieves a rare balance of laughter and compassion.

Jun 24, 2006

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Vincent Canby

New York Times

Though the cast is headed by three fine actors, two of whom, Mr. Burns and Mr. Carney, are also extremely funny men, it never elicits any emotional response more profound than curiosity.

Rated: 2.5/5

May 9, 2005

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Dave Kehr

Chicago Reader

There are laughs, but the prevalent tone is one of discreet compassion, without condescension or sanctimony.

Jan 1, 2000

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Renee Schonfeld

Common Sense Media

'70s comedy caper tugs at heartstrings; some swearing.

Rated: 4/5

Apr 18, 2017

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Dennis Schwartz

Dennis Schwartz Movie Reviews

Touching and amusing comedy.

Rated: B

Jun 17, 2015

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TV Guide

Director Brest does a great job with a sensitive subject, drawing fine performances from everyone.

Rated: 4/4

Oct 8, 2013

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john h

A witty and funny film where three elders attempt to die without regrets.

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars

06/05/25

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rick j

This movie is great for anyone who appreciates movies that hold back and paint stories with subtleties. The tow giant actors hold back their comedic antics and deliver a punch that will pay off for most. And Strasberg just delivers his magic. Even though it's a caper movie, there are no real thrills,, no chases or shoutouts. It's more about getting old, and facing the end with courage and integrity. George Burns nails it.

Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars

03/31/23

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Audience Member

After watching the remake first this one seems more sad an depressing since all the guys actually look a lot older then the modern day actors and with some research they are the same age. Overall this was an entertaining film.

Rated 3 out of 5 stars

02/07/23

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Audience Member

A geriatric Dog Day Afternoon, as three penniless septuagenarian flatmates decide on a whim to find some excitement robbing a bank. Because they're played by the brilliant George Burns, Art Carney and Lee Strasberg the movie is a delight: gentle, slow, poignant and funny. And beautifully directed by Midnight Run's Martin Brest.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

01/27/23

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Audience Member

Pathetic! Funny not. A smile now and then while we watch the pathos of old age in an unbelievable plot

Rated 2 out of 5 stars

01/14/23

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Audience Member

A charming & charismatic comedy about three seniors that plan to rob a bank due to lack of excitement in their own lives. Although the film has some great scenes that are quite funny it's the tender moments of the film that are the most memorable. It's interesting as the spend all the money you begin to see what's important to them, a fantastic blend of Comedy & Drama. A great little film....

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

01/31/23

Full Review

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Martin Brest

Director

George Burns

Joe

Art Carney

Al

Lee Strasberg

Willie

Charles Hallahan

Pete

Pamela Payton-Wright

Kathy

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Synopsis

Senior citizens Willie (Lee Strasberg), Al (Art Carney) and Joe (George Burns) lead lives of uninterrupted boredom until they alight upon the idea of robbing a bank together. Though none of them has a criminal record, they nevertheless find the planning of the caper an energizing and satisfying experience all around. Even more surprisingly, they pull it off -- but no sooner do they make off with the loot than their age begins to catch up with them.

Director: Martin Brest
Producer: Tony Bill, Fred T. Gallo
Screenwriter: Martin Brest
Distributor: Warner Bros.
Production Co: Warner Brothers/Seven Arts
Rating: PG
Genre: Comedy
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Dec 25, 1979, Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Jan 1, 2009
Runtime: 1h 36m

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