Classics: A Review of Steel Magnolias By Lauren Ennis

 On August 25, 2026 American icon Dolly Parton passed away at age 80. In honor of the beloved singer, songwriter, and actress I'll be turning the spotlight onto one of her most popular films; 1989's Steel Magnolias. This slice of life dramedy celebrates family, friendship, and southern culture at its most hospitable. Over three decades after its release, Steel Magnolias remains must-see viewing for mothers, daughters, and anyone who has ever needed a friend. 

The story begins in small-town Louisiana with recent arrival Annelle applying for a new job at local beautician Truvy's in-home salon. At the salon, Annell meets Truvy's colorful customers; wealthy widow Clairee, curmudgeon Ouiser, and mother-daughter duo M'Lynn and Shelby. The women welcome awkward outsider Annell into their circle and over the course of the following year the group face tragedy and triumph. Through it all, they find comfort and solace in their fellow steely-spined southern magnolias.

Through its earnest depiction of a group of friends facing life's everyday obstacles Steel Magnolias acts as an ode to the power of friendship. Each of the characters is confronted with varying degrees of adversity, but all of them find comfort and strength in each other. Even when they disagree, their support for one another remains unwavering. In their efforts to bolster each other's spirits through humor, gossip, and the occasional makeover the women demonstrate how we can all get by with a little help from our friends. Next time you need a friend have a girls day with the ladies of Steel Magnolias.

The film transports viewers to the coziness of a small southern town thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. Darryl Hannah ditches her sultry image and is utterly convincing as straight-laced wallflower, Annelle. Shirley MacLaine steals each scene in which she appears as crotchety but ultimately good-hearted Ouiser. Olympia Dukakis blends sass with class as society widow Clairee. Julia Roberts balances rebelliousness with girl next door charm as willful Shelby. Sally Fields lends a by turns heartwarming and heartbreaking turn as overly protective M'Lynn. Dolly Parton is nothing short of delightful in her warm, witty, and ultimately inspiring portrayal of everyone's favorite confidante, Truvy.

This slice of Americana holds all the sweetness of a breath of fresh magnolias. The script brings Robert Harling's 1987 Broadway hit to vibrant, tear-jerking, life. The cast brings each of the characters to the screen with humor, warmth, and charm. When life gets you down treat yourself to some southern hospitality courtesy of the Steel Magnolias.