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With her blond hair, trademark eyeglasses, and unapologetic preference for men, Gloria Steinem has not only been one of feminism's most prominent and outspoken proponents but also one of its most glamorous. This Lifetime
Intimate Portrait takes viewers back to Steinem's decidedly unglamorous Ohio childhood, during which she was forced to care for her mentally ill mother after her father left them. That early responsibility, coupled with grinding poverty, prepared her for her lifetime battle to improve the lives of women. The never-married Steinem, now in her 60s, gamely tells much in this 43-minute documentary, narrated by actress Goldie Hawn. She is aided in the recounting of her story by her older sister and sister feminists--including Marlo Thomas, as well as former beaus. Her abortion, prefeminist sojourn in India as a Mahatma Gandhi follower, short stint as an undercover journalist/Playboy bunny, and long battle to keep
Ms. magazine solvent all get fair play as this biography explores the makings of one of feminism's most important figures.
--Kimberly Heinrichs
From the back cover
From her work as a best-selling author to her career as a feminist activist to her efforts as an inspirational speaker, Gloria Steinem's accomplishments and leadership have touched women all over the world. Intimate Portrait offers a special look at Steinem's troubled childhood that shaped her life in many ways. In 1960 Steinem moved to New York City where she became a convert to feminism. Before long, she was writing articles and books, raising funds and tirelessly touring the country as an organizer. She went on to launch Ms. Magazine and founded the Ms. Foundation of Women. Now in her 60's, Steinem continues her mission to help others have the freedom to pursue their dreams. Her best-selling book, Revolution From Within, guides women and men to self-esteem as a source of empowerment and the ability to fight against stereotypical rules of society.
