242. Steel Magnolias

242. (07 Oct) Steel Magnolias (2012, Kenny Leon) 30



Even though he doesn't have a keen eye, Kenny Leon does what he can to open up Robert Harling's dull, strained stageplay. It's all for naught as the source material is every bit as affected as it was 25 years ago and passing references to Facebook and Beyoncé can't make it feel timely. This is excruciatingly unmoving melodrama. Only a broad comedic performance by Alfre Woodard is in any way accomplished.

219. Miss Evers' Boys

219. (22 Sep) Miss Evers' Boys (1997, Joseph Sargent) 61



Alfre Woodard dominates this conventionally made, moving story about the Tuskegee experiment. She brings her usual pathos and dignity to a role that requires such a sympathetic, likable presence. Her chemistry with Laurence Fishburne only elevates this. The structure is typical telefilm stuff, full of flashbacks and melodrama. But Sargent has made a message film spanning decades that feels understated and accomplished.