That's Life! (1986)

In Blake Edwards' poignant 1986 dramedy, *That's Life!*, audiences are introduced to Harvey Fairchild (Jack Lemmon), a wealthy architect plunged into an existential crisis by a severe case of male menopause as he approaches his 60th birthday. This deeply personal film delves into the often-uncomfortable realities of aging, creative block, and the strain these put on Harvey's marriage to his long-suffering wife, Gillian (Julie Andrews). The narrative unfolds over a pivotal weekend, revealing the raw emotions and complex dynamics within a family grappling with their patriarch's profound anxiety and depression, while Gillian herself faces a crucial medical diagnosis. Though less overtly comedic than his iconic *Pink Panther* series, *That's Life!* is an essential inclusion on any "Best Blake Edwards Movies" list precisely because it showcases his profound range and willingness to bare his soul. It's a deeply autobiographical work, reflecting Edwards' own struggles with aging, depression, and creative stagnation, and features his wife, Julie Andrews, in a role mirroring her own life with the director. The film exemplifies Edwards' masterful blending of humor and raw emotion, here leaning heavily into the latter, while still finding moments of observational truth and quiet resilience. It stands as a testament to his courage as a filmmaker, tackling a difficult, intensely personal subject with an honesty that few directors achieve, making it a uniquely poignant and enduring entry in his distinguished filmography.