Steel Magnolias (1989)

Parkinson praises the film as an engaging showcase for its leading actresses. He singles out Shirley MacLaine as stealing the show with a wonderful performance.

The review is warmly positive about the film and its ensemble cast. It singles out Olympia Dukakis for nearly stealing the picture and praises Sally Field’s understated performance.

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Henderson finds the film’s emotional shifts awkward but says the actresses’ camaraderie keeps it afloat. He especially praises Shirley MacLaine’s witty, well-rounded performance as Ouiser.

Errigo finds the film less persuasive than its stage source, though it retains humour and pathos. She singles out Sally Field’s performance as sensational, while criticizing Julia Roberts’s portrayal and the film’s weakened emotional force.

Brennan finds the 1989 film melodramatic and politically dated, though its cast achieves some chemistry. He singles out Clairee and Ouiser’s sharp exchanges as a bright spot amid the film’s syrupy portrait of women.

Rainer finds the film’s exaggerated performances and sentimentality overwhelm its intended emotional impact. He praises Dolly Parton’s sweet, lilting presence, while criticizing Shirley MacLaine’s scenery-gobbling performance.