Review of Steel Magnolias (1989) by Dawdlingpoet — 27 Nov 2021

This is a very dialogue heavy film - Dialogue and character focussed. It took a while to get a feel for the various characters. At first it seemed to me a bit too **** centered, with the female characters clerly saying what they really think about other people, behind closed doors. However, I admit I did feel more interested in it after a while - there are some reasonably quick witted pieces of dialogue, mostly spoken by Dolly Parton (who plays Truvy Jones) and its clear that the women care a lot about each other, which is somehow re-assuring. Its part focussed/set in the very mundane, everyday situations and in a way that maybe makes it more relatable for some. I found the chronology a little confusing to follow - a text prompt would have helped with that. I also respected the way the various ladies pulled together as friends - this is a good film for depicting the value of a good friendship/social circle.

There are some cliches present and it reminded me of 'Terms of Endearment' but its mostly a pleasant enough and even somewhat thoughtful film overall, which I suppose I would, at a push, recommend, if it sounds of interest to you, yes.