---
title: "A Woman Under the Influence"
year: 1974
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/a-woman-under-the-influence-1974"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 29845
imdb_id: null
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 155
community_rating: 7.8
vote_count: 0
content_rating: "R"
---

# A Woman Under the Influence (1974) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/a-woman-under-the-influence-1974

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

A Woman Under the Influence (1974) is a drama‑romance film that follows Mabel Longhetti, a desperate and volatile woman whose mental instability strains her marriage to Nick, a municipal construction worker in Los Angeles, and threatens the stability of their three‑child household. When Nick decides to commit Mabel to an institution, the story examines the fallout for the family and the unexpected developments upon her return.

The film is noted for its raw, unflinching portrayal of mental health and marital strain within a 1970s context, offering a somber, character‑focused tone. Its pacing is deliberate, allowing the emotional weight of the narrative to unfold gradually, making it a demanding yet rewarding viewing experience for mature audiences.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "A desperate mother’s unraveling tests her marriage and family in a raw 1970s drama."

### Why Watch
- Explores complex family dynamics amid mental instability
- Provides a stark look at 1970s societal attitudes toward mental health
- Centers on a character-driven narrative set in Los Angeles

### Caveats & Content Note
- Its 2h35m runtime and heavy emotional content may feel demanding
- Tone & Suitability: The tone is stark and somber, pacing deliberate, suitable for mature audiences seeking serious drama.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: #marital-strain, #mental-health, #family-drama, #institutionalization, #1970s-psychological, #los-angeles-setting

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/a-woman-under-the-influence-1974#watch.

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: John Cassavetes
- **Networks / Studios**: Faces International Films

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Gena Rowlands** as *Mabel Longhetti*
- **Peter Falk** as *Nick Longhetti*
- **Fred Draper** as *George Mortensen*
- **Lady Rowlands** as *Martha Mortensen*
- **Katherine Cassavetes** as *Margaret Longhetti*
- **Matthew Labyorteaux** as *Angelo Longhetti*
- **Matthew Cassel** as *Tony Longhetti*
- **Christina Grisanti** as *Maria Longhetti*
- **George Dunn** as *Garson Cross*
- **Mario Gallo** as *Harold Jensen*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: Where can I stream A Woman Under the Influence?
According to TMDB, the film is currently listed as streaming; check your local streaming platforms for availability.

### Q: Is A Woman Under the Influence worth watching?
It offers a compelling, emotionally intense look at a family's struggle with mental instability, making it a notable drama.

### Q: How long is the film?
The runtime is 2 hours and 35 minutes.

### Q: What are the essential parts to focus on?
Key moments include Mabel’s interactions with her family and the institutional scenes that drive the narrative.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [A Woman Under the Influence — The Movie Database (TMDB)](https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/29845)

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*