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Steel Magnolias
1989 118 min United States of America PG 0+
★7.5
Comedy, Drama, Romance
Director: Herbert Ross
Trailers
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Teaser
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Description
A young beautician, newly arrived in a small Louisiana town, finds work at the local salon, where a small group of women share a close bond of friendship and welcome her into the fold.
Budget:
$15M
US Gross:
$84.61M
Worldwide:
$95.9M
Starring
Shirley MacLaine
Actor
Olympia Dukakis
Actor
Sally Field
Actor
Awards
Golden Globe 1990
— Best Supporting Actress
BAFTA 1991
— Best Supporting Actress
Academy Awards 1990
— Best Supporting Actress
Golden Globe 1990
— Best Supporting Actress
Key opinion
Steel Magnolias is widely celebrated as an emotionally resonant "tear-jerker" that effectively balances humor with profound drama. While some critics dismiss the narrative as manipulative or trivial, the majority of the audience praises the powerhouse ensemble cast and the film's touching exploration of female friendship and resilience.
| Acting | The ensemble cast delivers powerful, memorable performances that anchor the film's emotional core. | |
| Screenplay | The screenplay masterfully oscillates between witty, lifelike humor and genuine tragedy, effectively blending comedic and sad moments. | |
| Theme | The film acts as a heartfelt, sincere tribute to female resilience and the enduring nature of lifelong friendship. | |
| Screenplay | The theatrical origins of the script create a debate between those who find the dialogue sharp and charming and those who find it contrived or overly melodramatic. | |
| Acting | Opinions on Sally Field's performance are divided; some praise her portrayal of a complex, protective mother, while others find her emotional shifts erratic and unbelievable. | |
| Pacing | The film's pacing is contentious, with some viewers finding the early "wedding preparation" scenes monotonous and sluggish before the emotional climax. |