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California Split

Name: California Split
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Released: 1974-08-07
Cast: George Segal, Elliott Gould, Ann Prentiss, Gwen Welles, Edward Walsh

1974 | 108 min | Comedy, Drama

Sunday Safe Betearly rating

Why it’s a Sunday Safe Bet

It earned strong reviews (85% on Rotten Tomatoes), though it had a box office flop and almost no lasting buzz. A safe bet when you want something reliable.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it: Made for anyone who wants a laugh. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
The mood: Funny with heart.
The pace: Takes its time with its characters, at 1 hr 48 min.
What might put you off: Rated R: meant for adults.
Made in 1974: an older pace and style.
Audiences were cooler on it than critics.

Carefree single guy Charlie Waters rooms with two lovely prostitutes, Barbara Miller and Susan Peters, and lives to gamble. Along with his glum betting buddy, Bill Denny, Charlie sets out on a gambling streak in search of the ever-elusive big payday. While Charlie and Bill have some lucky moments, they also have to contend with serious setbacks that threaten to derail their hedonistic betting binge.

How it earned its rating

CriticsStrong
85% on Rotten Tomatoes
AudiencesSolid
6.6 out of 10
AwardsNot counted
No major awards or nominations
Box office & staying powerWeak
$5 million worldwide
Buzz & cultural impactWeak
Not enough engagement data yet

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Cast & crew

Directed by Robert Altman

George SegalBill Denny
Elliott GouldCharlie Waters
Ann PrentissBarbara Miller
Gwen WellesSusan Peters
Edward WalshLew
Joseph WalshSparkie
Bert RemsenHelen Brown
Barbara LondonLady on the Bus
Barbara RuickReno Barmaid
Jay FletcherRobber