Diary of a Mad Housewife (1970): Cast & Plot

Carrie Snodgress plays Tina Balser, a well-educated and increasingly frustrated housewife and mother whose life in New York City is overshadowed by a loveless marriage to Richard Benjamin as Jonathan Balser. He is an insufferable, controlling, emotionally abusive, socially climbing lawyer who treats Tina like a servant, undermines her with constant insults, and belittles her appearance, abilities, and the responsibilities of raising their two daughters. Their daughters, Lorraine Cullen as Sylvie Balser and Frannie Michel as Liz Balser, reflect their father’s contempt and join in the family dynamic that sharpens Tina’s sense of isolation.

Seeking relief, Tina begins a sexually charged affair with Frank Langella as George Prager, a coarse writer who matches her husband’s brusqueness and contempt, offering little tenderness and driving her deeper into despair rather than happiness.