How many of you remember back in 1995 when the movie Waiting to Exhale debuted? I was just starting high school and all the guys were saying "not another male-bashing movie". But the innteresting thing about it was that a male (Forest Whitaker) directed which might make go hmmmm...it sure did for me. It was a pleasant surprise to see a male take on the role of an all-female cast. It should also be noted that this movie is notable for having an all-black cast. The success of the film proved that there is an audience for black movies. The LA Times called it a "social phenomenon".
The movie was adapted from the novel of the same name by Terry McMillan. Its story centers on four female friends living in the Phoenix, Arizona area and their relationships with men and one another. All of them are "holding their breath" until the day they can feel comfortable in a committed relationship with a man. Thus being able to "exhale"!
It features a nice ensemble that manages to have good chemistry while also allowing certain performers to step into the limelight and really dominate certain scenes. As someone who has read the book and seen the movie, think there is a great correlation between the two. Pretty much any film whether black or white could attest to this film in some sort of way. This movie is filled with sweet moments, great laughter, and maybe some tears. Just a wonderful movie that shows what friendship is about. I also believe it show great strength as strong women taking a stand for themselves to pull themselves together and stay strong and realize they have the ability to make themselves happy no matter the situation they are in. And not to forget, there is a fabulous soundtrack that accompanies this great film.
This is one of those films that has become a classic for me especially in Black Cinema, everytime time it comes on tv I can't help but watch it, even though I have the DVD...lol
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