Love with the Proper Stranger

Directed by Robert Mulligan, 1963
NR; 102 minutes

“Familiar in theme, but given a delightfully fresh flavour by [director Robert] Mulligan's atmospherically low-key direction, excellent performances from [Natalie] Wood and [Steve] McQueen, and vivid location shooting in New York's Little Italy.” —Tom Milne, Time Out

Angie Rossini (Natalie Wood), an innocent New York City salesclerk from a repressive Italian-American family, engages in a short-lived affair with Rocky Papasano (Steve McQueen), a handsome jazz musician.

The “My Favorite Films” series features tales of romance, humor, suspense, satire, and heroism with films since 1945. These films may hold special memories for you—no matter how many times you see them, they continue to draw you in once more. While many of these films are available through streaming, it's always more fun to see them in the theatre.

Join us for our November edition of My Favorite Films, "Judy's Reel Love!" What happens when love arrives unexpectedly? Inspired by audience member Judy M., this month’s selection explores romance in all its messy, magnetic forms—from chance encounters and complicated connections to the longing, music, and possibility that linger when two people find themselves drawn together.

Make a day of it at the Modern and include extra time to visit the galleries. Enjoy lunch in Café Modern and then settle in for an afternoon screening, or plan for a coffee break afterwards with fellow film enthusiasts.

Screenings are at 2 pm most Wednesdays in the auditorium. Tickets are $5 (free for Modern members) and are available at the Museum’s admission desk or online here.