Review of Steel Magnolias (2012) by Ben S — 19 Jan 2009

Quite possibly one of the most perfect movies ever filmed. Based off of an equally moving play, Steel Magnolias is the story of a group of southern women that frequent a beauty parlor. Wonderfully quirky characters, southern eccentricities and fantastic lines abound.

Dolly Parton shines as a big haired beautician that oozes suacy charm and homespun witticisms. Rounding out the supporting cast is Olympia Dukakis as a matronly widow, Daryl Hannah as a clueless bible-beater and Shirley Mclaine in the role she was born to play, a bitter but lovable grouch.

The two leads,Fields and Roberts, are terrific as a mother daughter combo. Set in the course of a little over a year, the story follows the ups and downs of these womens' lives. It's a shame that this film gets written off as a 'chick flick' simply because it has a nearly all female cast and makes you teary-eyed at times.

Rarely is this film recognized for its humor and compassion, which are its defining characteristics.