On a Clear Day (film)

On a Clear Day You Can See Forever is a 1970 American musical romantic fantasy film directed by Vincente Minnelli, starring Barbra Streisand as Melinda, a young woman with the ability to see into the past through hypnosis. The film is a screen adaptation of the 1965 Broadway musical of the same name, with music by Burton Lane and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner.

The story follows Melinda, a chain-smoking, psychologically troubled young woman who undergoes regression therapy with psychiatrist Dr. Mark Rudd (Yves Montand). During her sessions, Melinda regresses into past lives, specifically that of an elegant Englishwoman from the early 20th century. This past life experience helps her confront her present-day anxieties and issues, including her unhealthy dependence on cigarettes and her emotional turmoil. The film explores themes of reincarnation, memory, and personal identity, interwoven with a romantic storyline between Melinda and Dr. Rudd. The musical numbers are integrated into the narrative, expressing the characters' inner lives and emotional journeys.

The film received mixed reviews upon release, with some critics praising Streisand's performance and the musical numbers, while others criticized the film's uneven pacing and the somewhat convoluted plot. Despite the mixed critical reception, ''On a Clear Day You Can See Forever'' has gained a cult following over the years, appreciated for its unique blend of romantic drama, fantasy, and musical spectacle. The film's visual style, typical of Minnelli's work, is also often cited as a contributing factor to its enduring appeal. The film's soundtrack, featuring iconic songs like "Come Back to Me," "What Did I Have That I Don't Have?", and "On a Clear Day (You Can See Forever)," remains popular among musical theatre enthusiasts.