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Tag Archives: Shirley MacLaine

Steel Magnolias

30 Monday Mar 2020

Posted by vinnieh in Movie Reviews

≈ 12 Comments

Tags

1980's, Daryl Hannah, Dolly Parton, Drama, Dylan McDermott, Herbert Ross, Julia Roberts, Olympia Dukakis, Sally Field, Sam Shepard, Shirley MacLaine, Steel Magnolias, Tom Skerritt

Laughter, tears, joy and tragedy befall a group of Southern women in Steel Magnolias; a satisfyingly involving story of strength of friendship and celebration of women. Sporting a splendid cast of leading ladies and drama that’s peppered with comedy, Steel Magnolias has you laughing one minute and crying the next( and that’s what is so great about it.) Opened up from it’s stage setting, you have one beautiful movie.

In the Louisiana town of Chinquapin Parish; a group of women go through life’s ups and downs together, often in the local beauty salon. The women are no-nonsense mother M’Lynn Eatenton( Sally Field) , her spirited, type one diabetic daughter Shelby(Julia Roberts), beauty salon owner Truvy Jones( Dolly Parton), elegant widow Clairee Belcher(Olympia Dukakis), embittered and acidic grouch Ouiser Boudreaux (Shirley MacLaine) and new in town wallflower Annelle Dupuy( Daryl Hannah) . The film begins on the wedding of Shelby to lawyer Jackson( Dylan McDermott). Despite Shelby experiencing a hyperglycaemic shock in the morning, she is helped by her mother and friends and the wedding goes wonderfully. Meanwhile, Clairee and Ouiser spar constantly even though deep down they are close friends. Annelle goes through numerous changes, first from shy, woman child to more confident and sassy then overly zealous. Truvy has to contend with her husband Spud(Sam Shepard) being out of work and not showing her much in the way of affection. The big news is that Shelby decides to have a baby, despite the difficulties it could have on her body. M’Lynn is worried about her daughter’s health and isn’t exactly thrilled when Shelby announces her pregnancy. Shelby’s father Drum(Tom Skerritt) is happy for her and to an extend M’Lynn is, though the maternal terror she feels is still nagging at her as she comes around to the idea of it. Shelby gives birth to a baby boy, but tragedy may lie ahead for this wilful young lady. Through the tribulations of life, the Southern Belles band together with support, wisdom and a shoulder to cry on as they live up to the title of being as beautiful as flowers but tough and resilient when the occasion calls for it. 

Herbert Ross is on hand for sensitive direction and a feeling of genuine care for the source material, that opens out the original play setting effectively. He shows great affinity for fleshing out these fascinating women and all that they go through. These are the kinds of characters it’s easy to warm to as you can more often than not, see something of yourself in each of them. Yes you can argue that the film knows to manipulate emotions and does have sentiment, but since when is that actually a bad thing? Steel Magnolias earns the laughs and tears because of its excellence in terms of characters and feelings. I don’t mind things being weepy or sentimental, as long as they do it with style and are well executed( which this movie definitely is.) I think it’s unfair to just refer to it as a chick flick, as it has a lot more going for it than just that label. For one, it’s a celebration of women’s strength and unity in times of crisis that truly knows how to move the audience. And the humour, which is plentiful, goes alongside the more serious stuff nicely. Both compliment the other and know how to really impress the audience in this drama about how friendship can get you through the tough times and sometimes laughter and tears do mix. It’s pretty impossible not to get swept into the dramas and events of Steel Magnolias; it’s an emotional but rewarding ride that is peppered with nice humour and it’s heart being firmly in the right place. Seriously, if you don’t shed not one tear during this movie, your tear ducts have clearly been removed or you’ve got a swinging brick where your heart and compassion should be. A gentle yet well suited score really benefits Steel Magnolias and goes along efficiently with the big occasions the film covers, from wedding to Christmas and then Easter. 


One of the finest assets in Steel Magnolia’s arsenal is the sublime cast of mainly women. Here’s a group of actresses clearly relishing these relatable and well drawn characters that they breathe great life into. Heading things is the ever impressive Sally  Field who truly shines in her dependable way and gets to display the full gamut of feelings. She’s got the varying emotions of her character just right from deep love for her daughter to grave seriousness, immense strength and tenderness in the face of tragedy. Field has always been great at playing motherly characters and she doesn’t disappoint here with a performance that ranks up there as one of her finest, particularly in a late devastating scene that will move even the hardest of hearts. Seriously, Field truly gives it her all as an opinionated yet caring mother terrified of what might happen to her frail daughter. Julia Roberts, who was a year away from super stardom and following memorable work in Mystic Pizza, is beautifully vibrant, genuine and vulnerable as the frail Shelby, who doesn’t want to let her medical condition rule her life and takes drastic action despite warnings of what it could do. The character could have been too much of a martyr, but Roberts wonderfully avoids that with a wilful, delicate and passionate performance that showcases her undeniable star charisma and ability. A lot of the humour is derived from an on form Shirley MacLaine, who spits out bitchy one liners with relish and feeling. You’ll definitely have fun watching her as the town’s meanie who is actually a lot more caring than she cares to let on. Backing her up in sassy fashion is Olympia Dukakis, who is a hoot as the classy but not above fun Clairee. MacLaine and Dukakis obviously enjoy working together as their characters clash often but then make up in often humorous ways. Dolly Parton adds pearls of wisdom and an infectious exuberance and optimism that only she can provide. It’s a treat seeing the multi talented Parton here. Daryl Hannah, decked out in gawky glasses and coltish demeanour, provides laughs and a certain homespun set of foibles. Her character is always changing but her heart is always there and Hannah plays that splendidly. As the women are so indomitable and cover most of the film with their stories, the men are relegated to the sidelines. Though saying that, Tom Skerritt gets quite a number of fine moments to shine in naughty fashion, while Sam Shepard has a fine scene opposite Dolly that’s truly touching. Dylan McDermott is unfortunately saddled with a part that really doesn’t ask for much except being a handsome suitor to Shelby. 

Heartfelt, bittersweet and brilliantly acted and scripted, Steel Magnolias is a sensational production that makes you feel so many different things. I wish you all a great time with this gem of a movie that truly touches you, makes you laugh and is enjoyable. 

Valentine’s Day

21 Thursday Jul 2016

Posted by vinnieh in Movie Reviews

≈ 36 Comments

Tags

2010's, Anne Hathaway, Ashton Kutcher, Bradley Cooper, Bryce Robinson, Carter Jenkins, Emma Roberts, Eric Dane, Garry Marshall, George Lopez, Hector Elizondo, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel, Julia Roberts, Kathy Bates, Patrick Dempsey, Queen Latifah, Romantic Comedy, Shirley MacLaine, Taylor Lautner, Taylor Swift, Topher Grace, Valentine's Day

Film Title

Valentine’s Day

Director

Garry Marshall

Starring

  • Jessica Alba as Morley Clarkson
  • Kathy Bates as Susan Moralez
  • Jessica Biel as Kara Monahan
  • Bradley Cooper as Holden Wilson
  • Eric Dane as Sean Jackson
  • Patrick Dempsey as Dr. Harrison Copeland
  • Hector Elizondo as Edgar Paddington
  • Jamie Foxx as Kelvin Moore
  • Jennifer Garner as Julia Fitzpatrick
  • Topher Grace as Jason Morris
  • Anne Hathaway as Liz Curran
  • Carter Jenkins as Alex
  • Ashton Kutcher as Reed Bennett
  • Queen Latifah as Paula Thomas
  • Taylor Lautner as Willy Harrington
  • George Lopez as Alphonso Rodriguez
  • Shirley MacLaine as Estelle Paddington
  • Emma Roberts as Grace Smart
  • Julia Roberts as Capt. Kate Hazeltine
  • Bryce Robinson as Edison
  • Taylor Swift as Felicia

I was saddened yesterday to read of Garry Marshall’s death. He was a prolific director, producer and writer, who had a long and interesting career. One area he really succeeded in was directing romantic comedies and that is why I am going to review the all-star Valentine’s Day. I was planning to review this film anyway, but I will dedicate it to Garry Marshall now due to his passing. Anyway, back to the review.

Over the course of Valentine’s Day, the love lives of many residents is explored. Varying from newfound attraction to older couples, blinded love and pining, love seems to be everywhere in this set of interlocking stories. Valentine's Day Movie PosterGood-hearted florist Reed Bennett proposes to his pretty girlfriend Morley, who accepts. The day seems to be going amazing for him, yet he soon sees that Morley is having doubts about marriage. His friends Alphonso and schoolteacher Julia stay quiet but aren’t surprised when Morley calls it off as they saw that the couple wasn’t ideally suited. Julia is having a relationship with the dashing Dr. Harrison Copeland, yet he is stringing her along because he is already married which Julia is unaware of. Reed discovers this and wants to help Julia, making him acknowledge that he has harboured feelings for his good friend for a while. Then we have Julia’s other friend publicist Kara, who despises the romantic day due to an unlucky history in love. Yet this could be changed by the equally cynical sports reporter Kelvin Moore, who has been coerced into doing a special on the importance of the day. Older couple Estelle and Edgar Paddington have been married for a long time, but something from the past is bothering Estelle as they contemplate renewing their vows. Julia Roberts and Bradley CooperKate Hazeltine, an army captain shares a flight with affable Holden and the two become friendly as she tells him that she is returning for one day to see someone special. And there are many more stories that are too many to document because this review would become extremely long-winded otherwise.

Garry Marshall brings his expertise to this sweet and fluffy film. This kind of movie was his bread and butter and his considerable love for the genre is very much apparent. I can’t really fault his direction here as it is well done, though other parts of the film aren’t as assured as Marshall’s direction. Ashton Kutcher and Jennifer GarnerEach of these stories links to the next one in some strange way or another, some turning out not like you’d expect. Like with any movie containing an ensemble cast and multiple tales, certain stories are going to rise above others in terms of enjoyment. The best way to describe Valentine’s Day is as a big box of ribbon wrapped chocolates that is full to the brim with sweetness and delight, yet you remember some of the flavours more than others. The Taylor Swift/Taylor Lautner story could have been cut as it contributes nothing whatsoever to the story and the little boy trying to impress his sweetheart feels a bit too similar to one of the links in Love Actually. Then we have a nice story with Julia Roberts and Bradley Cooper talking on a flight back to Los Angeles that isn’t as clichéd as one would originally think. Anyone going into Valentine’s Day thinking it’s going to be something new will be mistaken because the formula of the film is familiar. Yet this isn’t to do the film down, it’s just how many romantic comedies have a story that is generic and been done before? It’s a genre that thrives on stories you’ve seen before and Valentine’s Day is no different in that respect. It’s a surprisingly sweet and funny experience actually and not as bad as many people have made the film out to be. I will admit I can be a sucker for romantic comedies sometimes so my opinion could be biased, but I enjoyed this film, even if the film is guilty of being over busy.

And following on about the film being busy, you have to say that the cast is one attractive bunch of stars. Be prepared readers, it may take some time talking about his massive cast. Ashton Kutcher is probably the person seen the most in Valentine’s Day and he has a real exuberance that shines through in an endearing way. A natural and sweet performance from Jennifer Garner is a nicely cast part, with plenty of humour and heart. Jessica Biel and Jamie FoxxJessica Biel is particularly funny as a woman who holds a I hate Valentine’s Party, but secretly wants some romance in her life that has been elusive so far. Alongside Biel in the humour department there is an amusing Jamie Foxx. Old pros Shirley MacLaine and Hector Elizondo bring warmth and experience to their roles as an older couple having to deal with feelings they weren’t sure of. Anne Hathaway and Topher Grace have good chemistry as a new couple with a hitch, she moonlights as a phone sex operator to pay off bills. Leading to much confusion, the two stars have fun and spark off each other well as they navigate the challenges of love.

Julia Roberts, who is already adept at romantic comedy, is luminous along with Bradley Cooper, in an amiable and funny vignette. Eric Dane and George Lopez fare pretty well with the material they are given. Carter Jenkins Valentine's DayEmma Roberts and Carter Jenkins make their tale funny and a little relatable as they play two students planning to have sex for the first time. Trouble is, it doesn’t go to plan leading to an amusing scene of Jenkins preparing to serenade his beloved wearing nothing but a guitar and being caught by her mother. Kathy Bates is unfortunately reduced to nothing but a cameo which is annoying considering how good Bates is as an actress. The same goes for Queen Latifah who is wasted and not given any opportunity to shine. On the negative side of casting we have Jessica Alba, who despite her beauty, is more than a little bland in her delivery. Young Bruce Robinson is endearing enough as the enamoured young boy wanting to impress a girl he has a crush on. The problem is the story is pretty much a non-starter that never comes to life. Patrick Dempsey plays a love rat with some smoothness that starts to vanish once he’s found out. Taylor Swift and Taylor Lautner are pretty poor as a love struck young couple and their story feels like it could have been left on the cutting room floor.

It’s not the best romantic comedy but it’s far from the worst, and Valentine’s Day displays the flair and entertainment value that Garry Marshall had for this sort of thing that will be missed within the genre. Rest in Peace Garry Marshall, may your great spirit live on through your wonderful work.

 

The Children’s Hour

31 Saturday May 2014

Posted by vinnieh in Movie Reviews

≈ 17 Comments

Tags

1960's, Audrey Hepburn, Drama, Fay Bainter, James Garner, Karen Balkin, Miriam Hopkins, Shirley MacLaine, The Children's Hour, Veronica Cartwright, William Wyler

Film Title

The Children’s Hour

Director

William Wyler

Starring

  • Audrey Hepburn as Karen Wright
  • Shirley MacLaine as Martha Dobie
  • James Garner as Joe Cardin
  • Karen Balkin as Mary Tilford
  • Fay Bainter as Amelia Tilford
  • Miriam Hopkins as Lily Mortar
  • Veronica Cartwright as Rosalie

William Wyler directs this powerful and daring adaptation of Lillian Hellman’s controversial play, The Children’s Hour. Focusing on the repercussions of a spiteful lie and the emotional fallout, it provides compelling and emotionally gripping viewing.

The Children's HourGood friends Karen Wright and Martha Dobie are the headmistresses of a private school for girls in New England. Karen is engaged to doctor Joe Cardin, who she plans to marry soon. Martha is slightly jealous of this and doesn’t want her friend taken away from her. She has a heated conversation with her Aunt Lily, a former Broadway star and elocution teacher about her feelings of loneliness. Her aunt tells her that her relationship could be seen unnatural.  Among the girls attending the school is Mary Tilford, a spoiled and vicious bully who delights in trouble. After being reprimanded by Karen over a wrongdoing, the spiteful girl forms a lie based on fragments of gossip given to her by her friends and tells her grandmother Amelia that Karen and Martha are lovers. Mary continues to fabricate this lie making her grandmother believe her. As a prominent citizen, Amelia quickly tells the other parents of the girls. One by one, the girls are withdrawn from the school as the rumours begin to spread about Karen and Martha’s relationship. The lie soon leads to swift, unexpected and ultimately tragic consequences as the two women are ostracized and their school becomes ruined.

The first thing to praise in this powerful tale of the horrifying impact of lies is how it deals with its subject matter. Lesbianism was still very much a taboo subject in the 60’s, The Children’s Hour manages to address this in a way many people will understand and doesn’t sugarcoat the source material. It examines how the women are treated when the rumours start, one particularly horrifying scene includes a group of men gleefully staring at the women, judging them because of their alleged relationship. The scene clearly demonstrates the prejudice and stigma against gay people during this time and shows it to devastating and heartbreaking effect.William Wyler directs with immediacy and quiet power as the camera looms over the school that gradually becomes silent as the girls leave and the two women at the centre of the story are torn apart by the lie of the spiteful Mary. The music score is an evocative one, engulfing the audience in the emotional fallout with crescendos and quiet strings. The script deftly captures the atmosphere of confusion and betrayal all caused by a few words from a little girl.

What gives The Children’s Hour its powerful impact is the talented cast. Audrey Hepburn subtly and luminously portrays Karen with a solemn and quiet reserve that takes on a pained expression when the lie begins to circle and her happy life is destroyed. Shirley MacLaine works excellently against Hepburn and delivers a touching performance as the needy Martha, who begins to crumble as the lie engulfs every inch of her existence. James Garner is suitably kind as the doctor engaged to Karen, who is one of the few people to stand by the women as others judge them. Karen Balkin is wickedness personified as the mendacious Mary, whose little lie puts the swift wheels in motion that lead to the pain endured by Martha and Karen. Fay Bainter nails her supporting role as Amelia, who spreads the lie but comes to see that her granddaughter is fabricating events too late. Miriam Hopkins is a delight as the highly strung Aunt Lily, who accidentally puts her foot in it many times. A young Veronica Cartwright essays the role of Rosalie, a classmate of Mary’s who is blackmailed into cooperating with the telling of the lie.

Powerful, daring and emotionally involving, The Children’s Hour shows the swift and tragic impact that one lie can have on the people involved.

 

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