The War Between Men and Women

The War Between Men and Women

Year: 1972

Runtime: 105 mins

Language: English

Director: Melville Shavelson

ComedyDramaRomance

A sarcastic, near‑sighted cartoonist who shuns commitment and prides himself on anti‑feminist, dog‑hating sentiments unexpectedly falls for a resilient single mother of three. She becomes the only woman willing to tolerate his relentless sarcasm and controversial views, leading to an unlikely, comedic clash of ideals.

The War Between Men and Women (1972) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

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In bustling Manhattan, a jaded cartoonist navigates the city’s chaotic rhythm with a razor‑sharp wit and a relentless disdain for anything that feels too sentimental. Peter Wilson lives in a self‑crafted bubble of sarcasm, preferring fleeting encounters over genuine connection, and spends his days sketching cynical commentaries while battling a worsening eyesight that threatens his delicate trade. The downtown art scene, with its noisy cafés and relentless deadlines, mirrors his inner turbulence, setting the stage for a life that feels as narrow‑focused as his vision.

A chance visit to an eye‑doctor’s office upends his routine when he meets a striking, leg‑long presence who exudes both confidence and compassion. Terri Kozlenko is a resilient single mother of three, juggling the demands of parenthood with a fierce independence that instantly challenges Peter’s entrenched attitudes. Her pragmatic outlook and unapologetic humor clash with his anti‑feminist, dog‑hating sensibilities, sparking a comic tension that ripples through every interaction. Around them, a bemused boss, Howard Mann, and an intermittently involved ex‑husband, Stephen Kozlenko, hover on the periphery, hinting at the complexities that accompany Terri’s already full life.

The film unfolds as a witty, character‑driven comedy that explores how two wildly different worlds can collide in unexpected ways. Its tone blends sharp satire with moments of tender absurdity, inviting the audience to wonder whether a man entrenched in cynicism can ever see beyond his own biases. As Peter’s eyesight falters and Terri’s household teems with youthful energy, their encounters promise a series of humorous confrontations and uneasy alliances, suggesting that love, family, and the possibility of change might be just a glance away.

Last Updated: August 20, 2025 at 17:48

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The War Between Men and Women

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