Skip to content

Tonight Collections Voices The Daily Library

Search films, people and collections/

Advanced search

A Criterion Channel companion.

Tonight
On 24/7
Leaving soon
Recently added
Fresh from theaters

Collections
Adventures in Moviegoing
Observations on Film Art
Meet the Filmmakers
Box sets
Editions

Closet
Top 10s
Commentators
The Feed

Lists
Want to watch
Favorites
Profile

© 2026 Criteria. Not affiliated with The Criterion Collection.

Starting Over (1979) | Criteria

Still from Starting Over — Starting Over (1979) — Alan J. PakulaPhotographed by Sven Nykvist

Poster for Starting Over

Alan J. Pakula

Starting Over

United States / English / 1979 / 1h 45m

Not streamingNot currently on the Criterion Channel.

Letterboxd: 3.33/5·3.5K ratings·1K reviewson Letterboxd
Connections: View Connections

Synopsis

After divorcing his ambitious singer wife, a middle-aged man begins a new relationship with a teacher.

Included in
Fresh Starts
Position 7

Credits

Crew

DirectorAlan J. Pakula

WriterJames L. Brooks

CinematographerSven Nykvist

ComposerMarvin Hamlisch

EditorMarion Rothman

Producer

James L. Brooks,

Cast

Burt Reynoldsas Phil Potter

Jill Clayburghas Marilyn Holmburg

Candice Bergenas Jessica Potter

Charles Durningas Michael "Mickey" Potter

Frances Sternhagenas Marva Potter

Austin Pendletonas Paul

Mary Kay Placeas Marie

MacIntyre Dixonas Dan Ryan

Jay O. Sandersas Larry

Charles Kimbroughas Salesman

Richard Whitingas Everett

Alfie Wiseas Workshop Member

Wallace Shawnas Workshop Member

Sturgis Warneras John Morganson

Mary Catherine Wrightas Student 1

Daniel Sternas Student 2

George Hirschas Student 3

Ian Martinas Doorman

Aerin Asheras Lord & Taylor Lady

Ben Pesneras Victor