The Swimmer is a 1968 drama film directed by Frank Perry and starring Burt Lancaster as Neddy Merrill. The film is based on a short story of the same name written by John Cheever.
Neddy Merrill, a wealthy and charming man, arrives at a friend's home in an affluent neighborhood. He notices that their swimming pool is sparkling clean and decides to swim home through all the pools in the valley. As he sets off on his journey, he stops at each pool and socializes with the people around him.
As Neddy swims through the valley, his interactions with old friends, estranged acquaintances, and former lovers reveal his true nature. Flashbacks from his past illustrate his life of affluence, privilege, and excess. He encounters a range of characters, from the wealthy and superficial to the poor and tragic.
As he makes his way through the valley, Neddy realizes that his life is not what it once was. His once-charmed life has turned into a nightmare of debts, lost relationships, and personal tragedies. By the time he reaches his home, he has lost everything he once took for granted.
The Swimmer is a poignant and thought-provoking film that explores the themes of aging, loss, and regret. It addresses the human tendency to cling to illusions of the past, even when they are no longer viable. With an outstanding performance by Burt Lancaster, the film raises important questions about the pursuit of happiness and the consequences of taking one's life for granted.