GeneralHDSubtitlesAudio Desc
Duration
140 minutes

Quick Summary

The close friendship between six women from different generations helps them to survive life's changing fortunes, highlighting the strength of intergenerational bonds. The series is a drama that portrays how their support for one another endures through daily varied circumstances.

About This Program

Steel Magnolias is a programme that is presented in the format of a movie. Classified under the movie genre, it is essentially a dramatic work that centres on interpersonal relationships. The title itself hints at a blend of strength and fragility, setting the tone for the story that unfolds within the production, and offers a glimpse into the lives of its characters. At the heart of the narrative is a tight‑knit friendship linking six women who span several generations. Their bond proves to be the cornerstone that enables each of them to endure the ups and downs that life inevitably presents. By leaning on one another, the women find the strength to cope with shifting circumstances and to move forward together. The drama showcases the talents of Sally Field, Julia Roberts and Dolly Parton, each delivering a performance that contributes to the collective story. Their presence underscores the ensemble nature of the film, highlighting how the characters’ interactions drive the emotional core of the piece. The casting of these three well‑known figures reinforces the focus on friendship and shared experience. Overall, Steel Magnolias presents a dramatic exploration of how enduring friendships can act as a lifeline amid life’s inevitable changes. As a programme formatted as a movie, it offers viewers a compact yet poignant look at the power of communal support across generations. The combination of its storyline and the performances of its three leading actresses defines the work as a heartfelt drama.

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Steel Magnolias broadcasts on Film4 +1 at 7:40pm, Thursday, 29 January 2026. (Subtitles)

Channel Numbers:
Freeview47Sky HD648Sky314Virgin430

Production Details

Year1989
Runtime113 mins
DirectorHerbert Ross

Cast & Crew

HR
Herbert RossDirector
OD
Olympia Dukakisas Clairee Belcher
DP
Dolly Partonas Truvy Jones
KJ
Kevin J O'Connoras Sammy Desoto
JR
Julia Robertsas Shelby Eatenton Latcherie
SF
Sally Fieldas M'Lynn Eatenton
DH
Daryl Hannahas Annelle Dupuy Desoto
DM
Dylan McDermottas Jackson Latcherie
TS
Tom Skerrittas Drum Eatenton
SS
Sam Shepardas Spud Jones
SM
Shirley MacLaineas Ouiser Boudreaux