Question 1

What real-life event inspired Neil Simon's play 'The Prisoner of Second Avenue'?

Accepted Answer

The play was inspired by the real-life bankruptcy and nervous breakdown of a relative of Neil Simon's then wife's uncle, a businessman who failed to start a small-town newspaper.

Question 2

How did Jack Lemmon accidentally injure Anne Bancroft during filming?

Accepted Answer

During a scene where Lemmon had to carry a shovel, he accidentally hit Bancroft in the shin, causing a bump. The director stopped filming, and Bancroft fixed it over the weekend.

Question 3

Which awards did 'The Prisoner of Second Avenue' receive nominations for?

Accepted Answer

The film received award recognition from the BAFTA Awards in 1976 and the Writers Guild of America in 1976.

Question 4

Who plays the role of Mel Edison and his wife Edna in the film?

Accepted Answer

Jack Lemmon plays Mel Edison, and Anne Bancroft plays his wife Edna Edison.

Question 5

What was Neil Simon's response to accusations that he hated New York City because of his play?

Accepted Answer

Simon said he loves New York and that the problems in 'Prisoner' are not exclusive to the city—robberies and strikes happen everywhere, but he singles out New York because he lives there.

Loved this film?

Share with others

Loved this film?

Share with others

The Prisoner of Second Avenue

Customers also watched