the look and the feel

My memory of this film is from my youth when I thought it would be funny, due to the cast, but instead it came off rather adult and serious. And sad, even for an ten year old.
After reading Norman Lear's recent autobiography and a recent showing on TCM, I decided to revisit it. Again, there is a palpable sadness under the wit and sarcasm.
Two surprises. One, it was nominated for best original screenplay, so some thought it was witty and original. Second, Conrad Hall is the cinematographer. Based on his film credits, the man was always in top form with angles, lighting, color, filters. He was considered a man at the top of his profession. Divorce American Style is a beautiful display of his work. All scenes are so well lit, with complicated set ups, (foreground, middle ground, background). Amazing, like Mad Men. The scene near the beginning with Van Dyke and Reynolds changing for bed is excellent for the lighting and the editing, maybe the most effective scene in the film. Is it a classic, no. Dated? Yes, but when you look at it from a photography point of view, plus interesting LA locations, it deserves a look.