The Sunshine Boys is a 1975 American comedy film directed by Herbert Ross and starring Walter Matthau and George Burns in the title roles. The film is based on a play by Neil Simon, and was adapted for the screen by Simon himself.
The story revolves around Willie Clark (Matthau) and Al Lewis (Burns), two former vaudeville partners who have not spoken to each other in over 20 years. The two comedians were once a famous duo known as the Sunshine Boys, but their relationship soured over the years, and they went their separate ways.
Willie is now a cantankerous old man living in a shabby New York City apartment with his nephew Ben (played by Richard Benjamin), who is also his agent. Al, on the other hand, has retired to the suburbs and is leading a quiet life with his daughter.
When Ben lands a job as the producer of a TV special featuring classic comedy acts, he tries to reunite the Sunshine Boys for one last performance. However, convincing the two old comedians to work together again proves to be a difficult task, as they have many unresolved issues and resentments.
Despite their bickering and stubbornness, Willie and Al eventually agree to the reunion, and they start rehearsing for the show. The rehearsals are chaotic and filled with mishaps, and Willie and Al's old routines just don't seem to work anymore.
As the performance date approaches, tensions mount between the two comedians, and it looks like the reunion might be a disaster. However, on the day of the show, something magical happens, and Willie and Al rediscover their old chemistry and camaraderie.
The Sunshine Boys is a hilarious and heartwarming film that showcases the talents of two of the greatest comedians of the 20th century. Matthau and Burns deliver outstanding performances, and their on-screen chemistry is unforgettable. The film was a critical and commercial success, earning four Academy Award nominations and winning one for Best Supporting Actor (George Burns).