The Last Word (1979 film)

The Last Word is a 1979 American comedy film directed by Roy Boulting and starring Richard Harris, Karen Black, and Lois Nettleton.

The film revolves around a gruff, alcoholic Irish-American poet named Danny Travis (Harris) who is hired by a civic group, led by the earnest but somewhat naive Emily Parkhurst (Black), to write a poem for the town's upcoming bicentennial celebration. Travis, initially motivated by the money, struggles with writer's block and his own cynical worldview. His abrasive personality clashes with the optimistic Emily and the rest of the townspeople, creating humorous and often chaotic situations. He also grapples with his relationship with his ex-wife, Angela (Nettleton), and the ghosts of his past.

As Travis spends more time in the town, he begins to re-evaluate his life and consider the possibility of change, while Emily learns to appreciate the complexities of life beyond her idealistic perspective. The film explores themes of artistic integrity, the clash between cynicism and idealism, and the potential for personal growth.