Wow. That's what I have to say about this movie. Wow. Now I am old enough to remember the original Steel Magnolias, and I loved it. I had reservations about the new one, wondering if anyone could replace a cast so iconic, and a movie so well remembered. And here's the thing. It's not a replacement, it's a new companion to walk alongside. I think I want to go back and see the old one again, just to see if I was right about the things that I thought were different! Of course, I'll have to stop bawling first. That's one thing the movies definitely have in common!
With an all star cast, headed by Queen Latifah playing M'Lynn, and one of my favorite ornery women, Alfre Woodard (She's the feisty lieutenant from Memphis Beat, which I really miss) is playing the orneriest of the them all, Miss Ouiser! Jill Scott brings a fresh face and a sparkling wit to Miss Truvy, and I was so thrilled to see Mrs. Huxtable herself (Phylicia Rashad) in the role of Clairee. She can definitely pull off the poise and character to play such a role.
I don't remember seeing Aderpero Oduye or Condolesa Rashad anywhere before, but I surely enjoyed watching them here. Annelle was the shy, reserved character of the 80's, and Miss "Blush and Bashful" Shelby delivered her lines with great spirit.
I felt like the 2012 version went farther into the mother-daughter relationship, and showed us more of what happened to Shelby herself, and as I said, I am going back to watch the 1989 Steel Magnolias.
Ultimately, I don't think there is a comparison between the two. This one isn't better than that one, and that one isn't better than this one. They are both incredible stories delivered by amazing casts, and each was perfect in its own time. If you haven't caught it yet, check out Steel Magnolias, on Lifetime.
I will say that if you had any problems with language or actions in the first one, you'll still have them, so as always, preview before watching with children.
Since “Steel Magnolias” was a play first, it would make sense that the storyline would change to fit the times. I’m glad to see this has been remade with an amazing cast. I have not had a chance to see the Lifetime “Steel Magnolias” because of my work schedule at DISH. I did set my Hopper to record it, and since there is a ton of DVR recording space I recorded my other favorite programs. Once I get a free moment I will try to watch this movie without bias for the original. I think viewers are just tired of all the violence, and language that is on television these days, and this movie is a refreshing change, even if it is a remake.
ReplyDeleteWell said :). And I think most of the reviews that I've read where the viewers were disappointed it was because they went in with a bias and expected the characters to be the same.
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