When I first watched Steel Magnolias at the tender age of 13, I was instantly enchanted by the ensemble cast and the heartwarming narrative. Seriously, what’s not to adore? A group of witty Southern women united by friendship, a shared love for sweet tea, and a knack for surviving life’s challenges with grace (and a generous bit of spandex). Each character infuses her own unique Southern flair into the film, culminating in a good ugly cry that makes this classic a delight for audiences of all ages.
Naturally, I found myself drawn to the character of Emma, portrayed by the effervescent Julia Roberts. As a teen, I dreamed of Emma’s fairy tale romance and her extravagant wedding to the charming and oh-so-dashing Jake. The church adorned in Emma’s favorite hues of “blush” and “bashful” made my heart flutter. It was then that I decided pink would be my signature color too.
Fast forward to today, and Steel Magnolias remains my ultimate go-to chick flick. I can’t resist the playful banter between Doris and Claire. In fact, I often find myself telling friends to “Do your roots,” and I frequently remind them that I love them “more than my luggage,” because I’ve practically memorized every line of the film.
I admit, I gauge my friendships on how well my pals can quote the movie alongside me. “You know, he hasn’t lived in Chiquapoo County since the dawn of time.” You’re either #TeamJake or you’re not in my circle.
Recently, I had the chance to share this beloved film with my 12-year-old daughter, and I was taken aback by how different the experience felt now that I’m a mom. The moment when M’Lynn, played by Sally Field, rushes down the hospital corridor to be by Emma’s side after her collapse hit me hard. Watching my daughter beside me, I saw M’Lynn as a representation of all mothers who would move mountains for their children. I silently prayed I’d never have to endure such a heart-wrenching loss.
Moms are indeed made of steel, and the lines from this movie remind us of our strength, even in the toughest times. “Don’t you decorate your sister’s car with, you know, that stuff — it’s just wrong!” M’Lynn’s exasperated shout as she spots her sons decorating Emma’s honeymoon car with, well, let’s say, inappropriate items, is even more hysterical to me now that I’m a parent. I can easily envision my son pulling a similar stunt with his sister.
“Time marches on and, soon, you’ll realize it’s marching all over your face.” Truvy, played by a fabulous Dolly Parton, serves up a harsh truth we moms know all too well. As I apply my nightly skincare routine, I find myself relating to the women in Truvy’s salon, all battling the signs of aging. As Annelle soon learns, “There’s no such thing as natural beauty.” Those salon scenes are some of my favorites, especially when Doris reminds us that moms have been in a bad mood for, well, 40 years.
“Spoken like a true wisecracker. There’s hope for you yet.” Every parent has that moment when they realize their child gets the joke and can lighten up. Claire’s witty remark to Annelle after Emma’s funeral makes me smile as I think of my kids and their clever comebacks.
“If you can’t say anything nice, come sit by me.” My friends have been my lifeline through motherhood, never judging my honest thoughts. My “can’t say anything nice” friends make navigating PTA meetings and dealing with judgmental parents bearable. You really need pals who will tell you when your outfit looks ridiculous.
“Ouiser, I’d recognize this handwriting anywhere. You have the penmanship of a serial killer.” We all have that one friend who knows us better than anyone and loves us despite our quirks. While Ouiser and Clairee may argue like siblings, their bond is what friendship goals are made of. True friends will forgive you for any heated moments, right?
“As a woman, I know how fortunate I am. I was there when that amazing soul entered my life, and I was there when she departed.” Cue the tears. M’Lynn’s heart-wrenching moment at Shelby’s funeral, where she takes in the sight of her daughter’s casket adorned with pink roses, is a powerful reminder of the depths of a mother’s love. Sally Field delivers a performance that captures the raw pain of losing a child, and as a mother, that scene now resonates with me in a profound way.
Even after all these years, I drop everything when Steel Magnolias is on TV because experiencing laughter through tears truly is the best remedy for everything.
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In summary, Steel Magnolias offers a mix of humor and heartache that resonates with audiences of all ages. It reminds us of the strength of women, the power of friendship, and the bond between mothers and daughters, making it a timeless classic worth revisiting.
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