A Hollywood director turned his own Malibu home into a set for this 1986 film

Entertainment · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: When Blake Edwards decided to self-finance his 1986 comedy-drama That's Life!, he moved the production into his own beachside residence. The project became a true family affair, featuring his wife Julie Andrews and Jack Lemmon, alongside their own children in supporting roles. But behind the scenes, the production faced intense labor conflict.

The film centers on Harvey Fairchild, a wealthy architect approaching his 60th birthday while grappling with a midlife crisis. As he navigates professional frustration and personal malaise, his wife, the singer Gillian Fairchild, attempts to maintain a facade of normalcy. While Harvey spirals into self-pity and erratic behavior, Gillian quietly endures the terrifying uncertainty of a potential cancer diagnosis, waiting for biopsy results that could alter their future.

The production of That's Life! was marked by significant friction due to its independent status. Because the budget relied heavily on Edwards' personal finances, many workers were compensated at rates lower than standard union requirements. This decision triggered a public protest from the American Society of Cinematographers, which included picketing the set and taking out a formal grievance advertisement in Variety. The pressure was so severe that the original director of photography, Harry Stradling Jr., resigned and was replaced by Anthony B. Richmond.

Despite the chaotic production environment and mixed critical reception—holding a 56% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes—the film found a unique path to financial success. It earned $4 million at the domestic box office, but the project was reportedly profitable even before its theatrical release, thanks to a lucrative sale of its VHS distribution rights. Ultimately, the story serves as a raw, if imperfect, exploration of aging, marital strain, and the sudden, fragile realization of what truly matters in life.

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