Set in a quaint town, this touching and uplifting film explores the bond shared by a group of women as they navigate through collective heartbreak.
The remarkable, award-winning cast of Steel Magnolias includes Julia Roberts, Dolly Parton, Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah and Olympia Dukakis, portraying friends who endure the loss of one of their close-knit circle. The eighties film was adapted from a screenplay of the same name by Robert Harling, which addresses his sister’s death.
Fans of the comedy drama have lauded it for leaving a lasting impression on them with an ideal blend of love, laughter and tears.
Field portrays Mary Lynn, who is assisting her daughter Shelby (Roberts) in preparing for her impending wedding. Meanwhile, timid beauty school graduate Annelle (Hannah) arrives in the small Louisiana parish after her husband absconded with her possessions and money.
She finds employment at Truvy’s (Parton) beauty salon where gossip and personal matters are regularly discussed. Annelle is welcomed into the group after being invited to Shelby’s wedding where she meets a new man, reports the Mirror.
Tragedy strikes later following the birth of a baby, and the women unite to chart the way forward in life.
Released in 1989, the film received mixed reviews but the performances of its actors were praised. Roberts was nominated for her first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and went on to win a Golden Globe for the role.
Field received a Golden Globe Best Actress nomination, MacLaine bagged three nominations and Dukakis received one. The film won Favourite Dramatic Motion Picture at the 1990 People’s Choice Awards.
Such is its enduring appeal amongst audiences, it has been re-released in different formats and continues to resonate with viewers more than 35 years since its original cinema debut. One viewer shared their thoughts on Rotten Tomatoes where it holds a 73% positive rating.
« Very nostalgic, happy, sad, entertaining and joyful! » one said. « I am obsessed with Dolly Parton’s character! She was bringing so much to the movie. Small town life during the 80s, that’s all I’m gonna say! The movie is full of life! ».
Another who awarded it maximum marks added: « Steel Magnolias is a heartfelt five-star drama that truly moved me. The incredible ensemble cast delivers powerful performances, bringing humor, warmth, and deep emotion to the story. Its themes of friendship, love, and resilience made a lasting impact on me, and I found myself completely invested in its touching moments. A beautifully crafted film that balances laughter and tears perfectly. »
Another viewer was left speechless, saying: « No words could describe my love for this film, not a single flaw, » they shared.
« The cast was incredible and the overall movie was absolutely perfect. If you’re looking for a sad film, this is definitely the one for you, I’ve never cried the same way I cried at this movie! Julia Roberts once again amazes us with her outstanding performance as Shelby! ».
Steel Magnolias airs at 6.40pm on Film 4 tonight, Wednesday 19 November.
