Steel Magnolias (PG, 1989)

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.

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.