Although his career as an actor and comedian has spanned over thirty years, with roles in dozens of movies and numerous television appearances, Albert Brooks has only written and directed seven feature films. Between 1979 and 1985 he was at the top of his game with the films Real Life (1979), Lost in America (1985) and this one, Modern Romance (1981).

Brooks stars as Robert Cole, a moderately successful film editor who, as the movie begins, breaks up with his girlfriend, Mary (Kathryn Harrold). This is not, however, the first time Robert and Mary have broken up. In fact, it is a fairly regular thing for them, and Mary is tired of it. But Robert is convinced this is the right thing to do, until, of course, Mary agrees with him. Then his insecurities kick in to overdrive, and he becomes convinced he needs to get back together with her. Once he gets her back, all of his insecurities and jealousies begin to resurface, and he immediately begins to sabotage the relationship all over again.

Modern Romance is one of those painful comedies that finds its humor in the psychological and emotional discomfort of its lead characters. Brooks plays the pathetic, neurotic jackass to perfection. Almost too perfect in fact, as he becomes so annoying in the final act you almost want to knock some sense into Mary and tell her to leave this idiot. But before Robert degenerates into a complete whining mass of insecure neurosis, Brooks gives a performance of comedic genius. The film starts with the break-up, quickly moves into a brief exchange between Robert and his assistant (Bruno Kirby), and then moves into an extended sequence that borders on performance art. As Robert fumbles through his house, stoned on Quaaludes, talking on the phone, trying to cope with the break-up, and mumbling to himself, Brooks is just plain brilliant. Everything about the nearly twenty-minute sequence is great, from Brooks performance to the writing, direction and editing.

Brooks, like Woody Allen, can be acquired taste. Both are former comedians whose stage personas have given way to very distinct screen personalities. But when either of them is on point, there's no stopping them. Modern Romance is Brooks at very near his best.

Video:
Modern Romance is presented in 1.85:1 anamorphic widescreen. The picture quality is a step up from the old VHS release, which was pretty dark. Although the transfer is not pristine, it is good, but it does not look like it was mastered in high definition as the packaging implies.

Audio:
Modern Romance is presented in Dolby Digital Stereo. The audio mix on the old VHS release was low, and it was hard to hear some of the dialog. One of the funniest jokes in the film – involving and old man in a phone booth – was practically lost in the old format. This mix is solid, with good levels that remain consistent throughout.

Extras:
There are no extras on this disc.

Final Thoughts:
Modern Romance is a hilarious comedy that has held up remarkably well over the years. It is unfortunate that there are no bonus materials

Despite the lack of supplements Modern Romance remains an amazing work of comedy.