ABC Circle Films
In 1973, Joan Rivers wrote a film called The Girl Most Likely To… and told the story of Miriam (Stockard Channing), a miserable college student in Southern California who is constantly made fun of for her looks. After attempting to get to know people and it never working out, Miriam tries to take her own life but is unsuccessful. Two surgeons replace her face with a much prettier face and give her the body of a model. After Miriam reappears at school with her new body and face, she seeks revenge on the boys who mocked her previously.
Review
The Girl Most Likely To… offers two different tones in the film. The first part of the movie sees Miriam navigating college while trying to fit in. Stockard Channing tries to remain positive throughout her interactions with other students but ends up trying to take her own life as a result of the constant bullying. Channing is fantastic in her role and nails the dark comedy tone of the film. She makes the role look so easy to play. She also balances the more depressing moments of the film as Miriam is often bullied, and Channing showcases how hurt Miriam is inside. As the movie shifts towards the second half of the film, it offers a harsh tone difference that fits the film. The film becomes much darker with Miriam seeking revenge on men at her college, but the film still has its dark sense of humor intact. Ed Asner’s character is introduced towards the end of the film as he plays a detective who starts to investigate Miriam but falls for her. The chemistry between the two is terrific even if you know how their relationship will turn out. I have never heard of this film before seeing it, but I was highly amused with the dark humor and the outstanding performance from Stockard Channing.
Video
The video quality for The Girl Most Likely To… is simply stunning. There are no traces of damage in its transfer and the visuals pop. The bright colors of the 70s clothing shines and some of the dark moments inside the college are clear. I was impressed with the video quality from Kino Lorber and how beautiful every scene looked.
Audio
With this being a TV film from the 70s, I expected the audio quality to be less than impressive but I was wrong. The audio is clear and rendered well with no issues of the sound being muffled or distorted. The narration is heard clear as well throughout the film.
Special Features
- Audio Commentary — The film features a commentary by two critics and authors, Amanda Reyes and Kier-La Janisse.
- Trailers for Kino Lorber releases — Jennifer, Last Embrace, Desperately Seeking Susan, Where’s the Poppa?
Overview
The Girl Most Likely To… was a huge surprise and I was impressed with Channing able to play two different characters. The film had a dark sense of humor that made the film enjoyable and haunting. The Blu-ray release from Kino Lorber is also impressive with a lot of effort making this film look and sound perfect on Blu-ray.
Kino Lorber generously provided Hotchka with the Blu-ray for reviewing purposes.
Share this post
