64
About
Respected liberal Senator Joe Tynan is asked to to lead the opposition to a Supreme Court appointment. It means losing an old friend and fudging principles to make the necessary deals, as well as further straining his already part-time family life. But it could be a big boost to his career, so he takes it on. Helping him prepare the case is pretty southern researcher Karen Traynor, and their developing relationship further complicates and compromises his life.
Theatrical
Aug 17, 1979
Box Office
$19.6M
Budget
$5.0M
Return
3.9x
Director
Producers
Music
Studio
Universal Pictures
Keywords
Where to Watch
Region
Apple TV Store
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HD
$3.99
Apple TV Store
Buy from
HD
$14.99
Amazon Video
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$3.99
Amazon Video
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$14.99
Google Play Movies
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$3.99
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Prices last updated October 4, 2026. Pricing and availability may vary by region.
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Cast
Full credits →A
Alan Alda
Joe Tynan
B
Barbara Harris
Ellie
M
Meryl Streep
Karen Traynor
R
Rip Torn
Senator Kittner
M
Melvyn Douglas
Senator Birney
C
Charles Kimbrough
Francis
C
Carrie Nye
Aldena Kittner
M
Michael Higgins
Senator Pardew
B
Blanche Baker
Janet
M
Maureen Anderman
Joe's Secretary
J
John Badila
Reporter on TV Screen
R
Robert Christian
Arthur Briggs
M
Maurice Copeland
Mr. Edward Anderson
L
Lu Elrod
Congresswoman at Party
C
Clarence Felder
Golf Pro
M
Merv Griffin
Himself
M
Marian Hailey
Sheila Lerner
D
Dan Hedaya
Alex Heller
R
Ronald Hunter
TV News Director
W
Walter Klavun
Waldorf M.C.
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