One for the collection (Beaches (DVD))

Member Name: NaomiGibson

Product:	Beaches (DVD)
Date:	23/07/09 (69 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great plot, great music

Disadvantages: Not for everyone's taste

I discovered this film about 10 years ago when my friend introduced me to it. It fast became one of my all time favourites and has stayed there ever since. As such, I am happy to call this a timeless classic. The DVD contains no special features but does offer limited subtitles and has a running time of 125 minutes (approximately).

PLOT
This is a story of two young girls, CC Bloom (Bette Midler) and Hilary Whitney (Barbara Hershey) who are from very different backgrounds. The meet coincidentally while both on holiday in Atlantic City. The friendship is very prematurely torn apart and they communicate for years through letters without actually meeting. After a series of events, the two are reunited and we follow their journey of friendship. You can expect jealousy, rivalry, tears, joy... for anyone who has ever experienced an intense platonic relationship there is plenty to relate to.
The first part of the story is told retrospectively while the latter is told in real time.

CAST
Young CC Bloom
Played by Mayim Bailik (does anyone remember the television series "Blossom"?) she gives an energetic performance and effectively portrays the essence of CC's younger self.

Young Hilary Whitney
This part is played by Marcie Leeds, who gives us a believable enactment of a young girl with the need to be a child and the social pressure to be a lady.

CC Bloom
Midler gives a show stopping performance with many musical numbers which will have you tapping, humming, crying - lots of nostalgia here!

Hilary Whitney
Hershey's character goes on a remarkable journey of self discovery as she struggles to break free from the constricting life she was born into. She walks us through this journey, giving us a wonderful array of personality changes as she grows as a person and fights the battles life throws at her.

OVERVIEW
I would recommend this for those who enjoy an emotional journey in their films. Keep a box of tissues handy!

This film is often available in the bargain bins of DVD shops these days - probably available for a price comparible to a new release DVD rental.

Summary: I would happily recomend this to someone who enjoys films in this genre