What's Up, Doc?

What's Up, Doc? is a 1972 American romantic comedy film directed by Peter Bogdanovich. The movie follows the story of Howard Bannister (Ryan O'Neal), a mild-mannered musicologist who finds himself in a series of chaotic events after the accidental mix-up of four identical plaid overnight bags. At the start of the film, Howard is preparing to give a lecture at a music conference in Eugene, Oregon. As he's packing his bags for the trip, he accidentally grabs a suitcase that belongs to Judy Maxwell (Barbara Hershey), a free-spirited young woman who is also heading to the same conference. As Howard arrives at the conference, he discovers that Judy has mistakenly taken his bag, and the two of them find themselves in a series of increasingly wild and wacky situations. The mix-up leads to a series of misunderstandings, misadventures, and comedic mishaps as they try to sort out their belongings and get to know each other. The film's plot is driven by the mistaken identities and ensuing chaos that ensue when Howard and Judy find themselves in the wrong places at the wrong times. Along the way, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, including a bumbling hotel clerk (John Hillerman), a flirtatious singer (Shelley Duvall), and a charming but slightly unhinged musician (Madeline Kahn). Throughout the film, Howard's straight-laced persona clashes with Judy's carefree spirit, leading to a series of humorous misunderstandings and unexpected moments of connection. As they navigate their way through the confusion, the two leads develop a strong bond, and the audience is left wondering if they will ultimately find love amidst the chaos. What's Up, Doc? features witty dialogue, charming performances, and clever direction from Peter Bogdanovich. The film's unique blend of slapstick humor, romantic tension, and social commentary has made it a beloved classic among comedy fans.