Only Once in a Lifetime (1979): cast, story & where to watch
1979 · Film · ★ 5
Released in 1979, Only Once in a Lifetime is a notable film directed by Alejandro Grattan, running about 90 minutes. “A down-on-his-luck painter, grievous over his wife's death, commits to improving his life and finding new love.” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. For 20 years, since his wife died only a year after they came to California as young, hopeful newly-weds, life has been hard on Francisco. A talented, but as yet unrecognised artist, he is forced to scratch a living growing corn and breeding canaries until the Public Health Authorities step in. Out of this develops a humorous and quizzical love story. Francisco searches for a new home for his old and alcoholic dog, having decided that he himself is worth more dead than alive. But just as his old dog finds that it is never too late to learn new tricks so Francisco rediscovers love and a zest for living in the beauty and serenity of Consuela.
Who’s in it. Only Once in a Lifetime stars Claudio Brook as Jimenez and Sheree North as Sally.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.0/10, Only Once in a Lifetime has proved divisive with audiences.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Only Once in a Lifetime page.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Only Once in a Lifetime (1979)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Only Once in a Lifetime change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Only Once in a Lifetime worth watching?
- Only Once in a Lifetime holds an audience score of 5.0 out of 10. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Only Once in a Lifetime?
- Only Once in a Lifetime stars Claudio Brook and Sheree North.
- When was Only Once in a Lifetime released?
- Only Once in a Lifetime was released in 1979, with a runtime of about 90 minutes.