Blallywood Film Review “Steel Magnolias”
I’m going to admit the unimaginable. I have never seen the original version of “Steel Magnolias”. I know, I know. You all can crucify me later. Why do I feel like I’m the only one in the world who actually liked the remake? The anticipated arrival of the remake of the southern classic movie “Steel Magnolias” premiered on Sunday, October 7, 2012 on Lifetime and was worth the wait. With an all-Black cast, Steel Magnolias tells the story of Six African American women who connect through relationship advice, hair, nails, and life lessons all at a beauty shop. The fantastic ensemble cast includes Queen Latifah, Phylicia Rashad, Alfre Woodard, Jill Scott, Condola Rashad, and Adepero Oduye. Condola Rashad, daughter of Phylicia Rashad, shines as “Shelby”. She plays Queen Latifah’s daughter, M’Lynn, who has been diagnosed with diabetes and yearns to live a normal life. She goes on to marry the man of her dreams but soon faces a tough decision. Her life expectancy is compromised after she disobeys the doctors order and decides to have a child. She soon finds herself feeling alone because her biggest supporter, her mom, is not so thrilled about her decision. M’Lynn knows the complications her daughter will face with her decision and this causes her to worry rather than be happy. Alfre Woodard brings in the laughs as “Ouiser”, the unpleasant neighbor whose attitude comes from the heartbreak of two ex-husbands. With the re-connection of a past flame, Ouiser gets her groove back. Jill Scott brings it as the unappreciated wife. While her husband struggled to find work, she struggled to gain back the husband she lost. Phylicia Rashad’s character, “Clairee”, is the widow of the late Mayor. Phylicia Rashad brings poise to her character and you can’t help but love her. Adepero Oduye, “Annelle” in the movie, is the new kid on the block as she wonders into Truvy’s shop looking for work. With a husband who disappeared along with all of her money, Annelle looks toward starting a new life for herself. Sexy man himself, Lance Gross, makes a guest appearance in the film as a bartender. He looked mighty good mixing up drinks. Without giving to much away, the ending was very emotional, as I sat alone and cried like a baby. With an ensemble cast like this, you would not expect to be disappointed. And you won’t. Uplifted, motivated, emotional, happy, full of laughter, and enthused are just some of the words that express how you will feel after watching this film. The acting was great, even from the supporting actors, and the film is a winner. I recommend everyone to give this movie a chance. What other black actresses could you see filling these roles? Did you enjoy the film? I give Steel Magnolias two margaritas because it will leave you feeling good.
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