The Swimmer (British English version)
In a prosperous suburb of Connecticut, the troubled Ned Merrill (Burt Lancaster) confronts his dreams and self-deceptions. One summer morning, he decides to “swim” his way home by moving from one neighbour’s swimming pool to the next.
Along the way, he encounters several women from his past: a spirited teenage girl (Janet Landgard) caught between adolescence and adulthood, a bitter former lover (Janice Rule), and the sensual wife of an old friend (Kim Hunter).
Ned’s journey is marked by awkward encounters, humiliation, and intense desire. He moves from one situation to another until he finally arrives at his empty house, where a shocking realisation about his own life awaits.
The film is based on John Cheever’s acclaimed short story, first published in The New Yorker in 1964. Burt Lancaster delivers one of his most memorable performances in what he considered his finest film role, once describing it as “Death of a Salesman in swimming trunks.” The Swimmer has since become a cult classic, frequently listed among critics’ favourites, and continues to attract new audiences.
Runtime: 1h 35m
Language: English (no subtitles)
Tickets available via Odeon Kino Stavanger
NB: Cinemateket screenings are ad-free – please arrive on time.
