Sally Field, Dolly Parton and Shirley Maclaine feature in Herbert Ross's funny, touching, characterful melodrama Steel Magnolias, based on Robert Harling's 1987 play. Revolving around Truvy's Beauty Parlour in a small parish in Louisiana, it's the story of a close-knit, cross generational circle of friends whose lives come together there.

M'Lynn (Field) is the mother of bride-to-be Shelby (Roberts), and as friend Truvy (Parton) and kooky aspiring beautician Annelle (Daryl Hannah) fix their hair for the ceremony, they're joined by serene mayor's widow Claire (Olympia Dukakis) and cantankerous Louisa (Maclaine). Diabetic Shelby is in ill health, and M'Lynn fears for her daughter's future. Time passes, and the women encounter both tragedy and good fortune, growing stronger and closer in the process.

Running time: 2hrs13, including ads and trailers.

Screening for Mother's Day (Sunday 30 March).