My review was written in April 1982 after a Manhattan UES screening during theatrical release:
Produced for and originally broadcast in 1979 over network television, "Too Far to Go" is an affecting feature film dealing with marital breakup. Sharp-focus lensing in 35mm makes its theatrical release laudable, with Francis Coppola's Zoetrope banner likely to muster a specialized audience in class sites.
Scripted by William Hanley from stories by John Updike, pic utilizes witty, arch dialog in limning the separation and divorce of New England couple Richard and Joan Maple (Michael Moriarty and Blythe Danner). Flashbacks concisely detail happier times for the duo, with sexual matters ranging from infidelity to cessation of marital relations for several years handled frankly but tastefully (by current screen standards).
Using well-framed closeups (designed for small screen medium but powerful in the theatrical mode) and suppressing master shots, helmer Fielder Cook handles the material with solid surprise effects, for example, a spooky moment when a lover's hand enters the frame to reveal Joan's adjustment just after Richard phones her.
Lead thesps shine, particularly Blythe Danner as the stronger of the couple. She is radiant in 20-years-ago flashbacks and a fiery adversary in the modern scenes. Cast as somewhat stuffy and week, Michael Moriarty is generally impressive within the limitations of a forced accent.
Outstanding in brief support are Josef Sommer as Richard's accountant, laying down the law on alimony to last "forever". Kathryn Walker as a chatty, family friend providing Richard with some loving during a rainstorm, Doran Clark as the eldest daughter -a beautiful, very natural actress, and Thomas HIll, quite funny in a bit as Joan's psychiatrist.
Economical use of locations fleshes out this intimate study, photographed by Oscar-winner Walter Lassally in a handsome, mainly realistic (stressing source lighting) mode. Other credits are fine. Prior television exposure obviously cuts into the audience for "Too Far to Go", but as with any good picture, there's life beyond the tube for this property and a treat for fans who still prefer large-screen 35mm visual presentations.
