‘New Leaf’ Is Budding Comedy

Not only is Elaine May the writer and director of “A New Leaf”--a splendidly wry comedy--but she also gives a sublime performance as its pathetically klutzy heroine, Henrietta Lowell.

May is teamed with Walter Matthau, who plays Henry Graham, a self-indulgent playboy on the verge of destitution.

Henry has never worked a day in his life, nor has he spent much time thinking of such mundane matters. After his trusty valet suggests that “marriage is the only way to acquire property without labor,” Henry decides on an even better plan: marry, then kill the wife.

His search for a suitable short-term mate ends when he meets Henrietta, a wealthy, introverted botanist. Her dearth of social graces is all the justification Henry needs: The world is obviously better off without her; he certainly will be. But their courtship is vehemently opposed by Henrietta’s attorney (Jack Weston), who, with the housekeeper, is looting her estate.

As the mousy Henrietta, May is brilliant, her timing impeccable. Matthau’s laconic manner perfectly complements May’s physical comedy. They are an enchanting team.

A strangely abrupt ending is perhaps one of the reasons May disavowed the finished film, which was edited by others. Even though “A New Leaf” never achieves the masterpiece level of understated comedy as does “Being There,” it is an amusing confection and time well spent.

“A New Leaf” (1970), directed by Elaine May. 102 minutes. Rated PG.