Review of Norma Rae (1979) by Mitch B — 08 Nov 2009

Norma Rae was enjoyable due to a spunky and heartfelt performance by Sally Field as the title character. The story and screenplay in this film made much of the big city union organizer navigating through a sea of ignorant country bumpkins, which might have potentially been offensive in its particular execution. Yet, the fact that Field and Norma Rae had an openness about them that fueled their passion - in the story and in the performance - as much as it expanded the cause made her character relatable and endearing and the story engaging, even if a bit simplistic and predictable, all told.

The supporting performances were also good, particularly by Leibman. While some may regard this film as decidedly one-sided (pro-union) and may want to ascribe biases either way, the fact that he made his union organizer genteel and sophisticated if ultimately human and somewhat stereotypical made his character a perfect match for Norma Rae's feisty southern charms. Their relationship, though clearly filled with affection, was also a caring and equal friendship that transformed into the heart and soul of the story.

Coupled with the folksy song "It Goes Like It Goes" by Jennifer Warnes, Norma Rae, while no cinematic masterpiece by any stretch of the imagination and fairly ordinary in its execution, still managed to tell a convincing, heartwarming, and inspirational story about one woman's struggle to fight injustice without being manipulative or pandering too far one way or another. Furthermore, the ending was perfect, even if partially foregone.