Steel Magnolias (1989) Review in 2025
Steel Magnolias is a heartwarming drama about the lives of a group of southern women, focusing on the strong bond between them and their experiences with love, loss, and friendship.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but some scenes may be too emotional for younger viewers.
CineReview Recommendation
Steel Magnolias is a must-watch for fans of drama and comedy, especially those who enjoy stories about strong women and their relationships. It's a heartwarming and engaging movie that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie revolves around Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie, a young woman with diabetes, who wants to get married and have children despite her health condition. Her mother, M'Lynn, is overprotective and worried about Shelby's future, while her friends at the local beauty salon, Truvy's, offer support and advice.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and well-developed, exploring themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery in a small southern town. The plot is predictable, but the characters' interactions and relationships make it enjoyable to watch.
acting9.50/10
The acting is exceptional, with each cast member delivering a memorable performance. The chemistry between the actors is undeniable, making their interactions and relationships feel authentic and engaging.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable, with each one bringing their unique personality and quirks to the story. The cast delivers excellent performances, making it easy to become invested in their lives.
direction8.00/10
The direction is solid, with a clear vision for the tone and atmosphere of the movie. However, some scenes feel a bit rushed, and the pacing could be improved in certain areas.
cinematography7.50/10
The cinematography is pleasant, with a warm and inviting color palette that suits the movie's southern setting. However, some scenes could benefit from more attention to lighting and composition.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's strong characters, engaging story, and excellent acting make it a standout film. The cast's chemistry is undeniable, and the movie's themes of friendship and self-discovery are relatable and inspiring.
Cons
Some scenes feel a bit rushed, and the pacing could be improved in certain areas. The cinematography is pleasant but not particularly memorable.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a morning person. I'm not a night person. I'm a 'whenever the coffee kicks in' person."
"I'm not a vegetarian because I love animals. I'm a vegetarian because I hate plants."
"I'm not crazy, I've just been in a bad mood for 40 years!"
"There's no such thing as natural beauty."
"You can't live in the past, but you can't live in the future either."
