Ever in the mood for a chick flick? Well, have I got one for you. The Women is Director/Screenwriter/Producer Diane English’s (of Murphy Brown fame) theatrical film debut. The female-only star-studded cast (the first male character isn’t glimpsed until the last scene) includes Meg Ryan, Annette Bening, Jada Pinckett Smith, Debra Messing, and Eva Mendes. Also appearing are the fabulous Candice Bergen, Bette Midler and Cloris Leachman.
This film is a remake of a 1939 hit starring Joan Crawford. After seeing the 2008 version I am desperate to watch the original and compare. Although I enjoyed the film and was entertained, it was pretty predictable and somewhat silly. Meg Ryan was her typical cutesy self, somewhat redeemed by the end (but barely) and the other characters were so stereotypical it was often uncomfortable. Jada Pinckett Smith’s loud mouthed lesbian on the prowl; Debra Messing’s hippy throwback popping out babies; Annette Bening’s washed up, ethically challenged career woman and Eva Mendes’ sex and money crazed homewrecker held no surprises.
Although the message of friendship, independence and loyalty were consistent throughout the film they were often overshadowed by the characters’ simplicity, and it wasn’t until near the end of the film that another, deeper side of these women and their relationships was glimpsed.
However, if you are like me and don’t get out much, this wasn’t a huge issue. I got a night out with the girls, we had fun, a few laughs, and a popcorn dinner. Take it for what it is and you’ll have fun too. Plus, we got to see the preview for The Secret Life of Bees. I just read the book and can NOT wait to see the film!
This review was posted by Jen.