 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
Steel Magnolias
- Review Date: October 15, 2005
- PG
- Genre: Drama
- 1989
Common Sense Media says
Three-hanky special, but with lots of laughs, too.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this movie handles some mature material, including a mother watching her adult daughter die. Plus there are plenty of scatological epithets, and one crusty women curses a blue streak. The women also gossip relentlessly. Women may seem to rule the roost, but this is genteel Louisiana -- gender roles are firmly in place. Very few people of color appear.
What's the story?
This adaptation of Robert Harling's play highlights the unwavering friendships that unite a group of Louisiana women as they confront loss and heartache. The story opens on the day of Shelby's (Julia Roberts) wedding to Jackson, a handsome Louisiana lawyer who assures her that he'll take care of her, despite her frail health. Shelby is diabetic, and has been warned that she shouldn't have children. Her mother M'Lynn (Sally Field) has hovered over her daughter for years, intervening whenever her blood sugar dipped. Shelby decides to have a baby despite the risk; her mother is appalled, but remains supportive. When Shelby's kidneys fail as a result, her mother gives up one of hers. But in the end, M'Lynn can't save Shelby from the ravages of her disease, and she ends up relying upon the salt-of-the-earth women that frequent the local beauty salon for support through her loss.
Is it any good?
This movie put Julia Roberts on the map and earned her an Oscar nomination, but Sally Field steals the show and there are many other memorable performances. As two rich, rival widows, Olympia Dukakis and Shirley MacLaine are delightfully snippy, despite their deep friendship. Dolly Parton shines as a "beauty technician" and lovelorn philosopher -- her salon is the backdrop for the best scenes. And Daryl Hannah is a timid beauty school graduate who grows into her own, nurtured by these strong women.
While the main storyline is a sad one, ending in Shelby's eventual death from diabetes, STEEL MAGNOLIAS is really about the friendships that sustain us through life's highs and lows. This movie has plenty of heart and offers a powerful picture of kindness and compassion between women. Adolescent girls may find the friendship theme especially compelling, as they begin to depend on friends' support through their own crises, from heartbreak to the dynamics of family relationships.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about "chick flicks." What does that term mean, and is it derisive? Do you think that there is something powerful about movies targeted just to women -- or are you offended by the idea that a movie about women's lives and friendships would only appeal to other women?
- Show:
- All members
- Parents
- Teens & kids
AGE
great family movie
this is a great movie for families. definitely about building strong relationships and dealing with difficult situations in a positive way.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Great, emotional, but funny movie.
This is a wonderful movie. Very emotional, but still funny and full of laughs. Parents should watch this movie with their kids and discuss the emotional content. You will laugh and cry.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Lots of language and inappropriate for young children
This PG movie would be PG-13 if it were made today. Lots of language, male nudity in locker room and other material. Definitely not suitable for young children.
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
Strong movie that every girl should watch.
Steel Magnolias is a movie that every girl should see. Steel Magnolias is a metaphor for even though women can be delicate and fragile, they can be made of steel at the same time. Weezer does cuss often. Just tell your child to not repeat it. It shows strong female characters that change, grow, and become even stronger. It is a touchy movie that you will cry at and laugh at. Mothers should watch it with their daughters not because of issues with the movie just so that the mom can explain more about the movie to the child. Very good strong movie. Everyone should watch it. Bye!
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
great friendship movie
This movie is a heart warming movie for kids 12 and up. I personally liked it but it did have some langague in it. besides the langague I thought it was a great movie!
Was this review useful?
|
|
AGE
This is a memorable movie between these woman and though not for younger veiwers (7 and under) can be a slight touchy in some subjects (mention of guns w/ hunting and beers in the fridge) can be a heart warming.
Was this review useful?
|
|
Kid, 10 years old
May 1, 2011
AGE
good for ages 10 or 9 up
i think this movie is a very emotional and you have to be a little more mature for it. i didnt like when shelby died and that is a part that you need to be more mature for. though id say it is a cute and funny movie
Was this review useful?
|
|
| Topics: | friendship |
| Studio: | Columbia Tristar |
| Director: | Herbert Ross |
| Cast: | Daryl Hannah, Julia Roberts, Olympia Dukakis, Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine |
| Genre: | Drama |
| Run time: | 118 minutes |
| Theatrical release date: | November 15, 1989 |
| DVD release date: | December 28, 1999 |
| MPAA rating: | PG |
Review It
Great alternatives handpicked by our editors
Already seen it? What do you think?
More from Common Sense Media
Top advice and articles
