Rita, a witty 26-year-old hairdresser, wants to 'discover' herself, so she joins the Open University where she meets the disillusioned professor of literature, Dr. Frank Bryant. His marriage has failed, his new girlfriend is having an affair with his best friend and he can't get through the day without downing a bottle or two of whisky. What Frank needs is a challenge... and along comes Rita.
Acting
Caine and Walters both earned Oscar nominations — deservedly.
Writing
Willy Russell's stage dialogue sings without feeling theatrical.
Direction
Gilbert trusts two people talking in rooms.
Director
Lewis Gilbert
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Julie Walters originated Rita on stage and fought to keep the role on film; producers wanted a bigger name.
The Open University subplot reflected real 1980s Britain — Thatcher-era working-class education access was politically loaded territory.
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Reactions from the web
This trailer won’t inspire anyone to see this film, but it should definitely be watched. One of my favorites since I first saw it in the 80’s.
@roro515_video 25
No1 favourite film for the rest of my days “I don’t think they would’ve accepted me at the age of six”
@sfoster.23 61
yeah, that's a brilliant movie. both of them should have walked away with an Academy Award for this one!
@normadesmond6017 20
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