- Film Review
- Reviewed By Stella Papamichael
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2 out of 5
George Cukor's 1939 satire was ahead of its time with its scathing depiction of Manhattan society wives, but this remake from Diane English swaps bitching for self-indulgent blubbing. Meg Ryan is rather bland as Mary Haines, a woman who seems to have everything until she discovers that her successful husband is being unfaithful with local gold-digger Eva Mendes. Unfortunately, and in stark contrast to Joan Crawford's portrayal of the scarlet woman in the original film, there is no depth to Mendes's character. Mary's brood of girlfriends who rally round during her hour of need are just as sketchily drawn: Annette Bening plays a fashion editor whose loyalty is put to the test by self preservation; Jada Pinkett Smith is the token lesbian; while Debra Messing plays an over-attentive new-age mom. Everything feels contrived and out of step, with the exception of a wisecracking turn by Candice Bergen as Mary's mother.
Plot Summary
Comedy drama starring Meg Ryan, Eva Mendes and Annette Bening. When successful designer Mary Haines discovers that her wealthy husband is having an affair with a New York shop girl, divorce is the only option. During the couple's separation, she finds comfort in the friendship of her girlfriends, but soon realises that loyalty only goes so far.
Cast and crew
Cast
- Mary Haines
- Meg Ryan
- Sylvie Fowler
- Annette Bening
- Crystal Allen
- Eva Mendes
- Edie Cohen
- Debra Messing
- Alex Fisher
- Jada Pinkett Smith
- Leah Miller
- Bette Midler
- Catherine Frazier
- Candice Bergen
- Bailey Smith
- Carrie Fisher
- Maggie
- Cloris Leachman
- Tanya
- Debi Mazar
- Barbara
- Joanna Gleason
- Glenda Hill
- Lynn Whitfield
- Pat
- Ana Gasteyer
Crew
- Director
- Diane English
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