|
|
|
Average Customer Review
Share your thoughts with other customers
|
|
|
|
The most helpful favorable review
| |
The most helpful critical review
|
90 of 103 people found the following review helpful:
Seeing this movie is a revolutionary experience
Only because Mary Poppins was released during the beginning of America's second wave of feminism was its `sister suffragettes' number inspiring during that film.
Yet the 1964 snippet of British suffrage tactics completely and convieniently overlooked their radical strategies in favor of bouncy and pert cheerleading which could otherwise found at a high...
Published on August 13, 2004 by Robin Orlowski
|
› See more 5 star, 4 star reviews |
 |
8 of 12 people found the following review helpful:
Partially Successful
Sometimes the only way to get what is owed to you is to fight long and hard ... and even a litle dirty. "Iron Jawed Angels" would have been more successful if it had dispensed with the distracting camera tricks and contemporary soundtrack; Hilary Swank and Frances O'Connor do a good enough job without the added effects. The entire cast does a good job here, although...
Published on May 9, 2005 by Edward Aycock
|
› See more 3 star, 2 star, 1 star reviews |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
90 of 103 people found the following review helpful:
Seeing this movie is a revolutionary experience, August 13, 2004
Only because Mary Poppins was released during the beginning of America's second wave of feminism was its `sister suffragettes' number inspiring during that film.
Yet the 1964 snippet of British suffrage tactics completely and convieniently overlooked their radical strategies in favor of bouncy and pert cheerleading which could otherwise found at a high school game. While acknowledging the need for women's rights, that same film also presented the women as pampered housewives who were really too busy for their families.
Thank goodness this HBO movie is much more realistic about the American-British radical suffrage struggle.
Alice Paul (Hillary Swank) and company may be conventionally attractive, but they are also not afraid to show how openly ticked off they are about being held to laws they cannot help form.
Much to the chagrin of the older `respectable' American suffragists (who want to wait for men to give them the vote), the British experience encourages demand for full sociopolitical equality. When they are jailed for their convictions, the women refuse to eat. By our modern expectations, the prison response (shown in graphic detail) is especially brutal.
For all of their progressive politics, Paul and company downplay race ironically in a time when such justice is most needed. Paul personally welcomes support of Delta Sigma Theta and other African American organizations, but worries their public presence will either undo or prevent the critical southern support necessary to winning suffrage. It is not easy to admit that our movement has an imperfect past, but it is important to ensuring a socially just future for all members. This conciousness is a marked improvement from days when even feminists themselves assumed their experiences applied for all women and race was a separate issue.
Another plus, this same movie recognizes men have always supported the suffrage movement not because they wanted a partner, already had one, or were lobbied until they had no other public choice---but out of similar social justice concern.
Again, earlier suffrage depictions (as with the larger feminist movement) erroneously claimed that the movement was all women. This more accurate historical picture may convince male viewers they have a similar obligation to work for the continuation of modern women's equality. Other men will question their motives and some women will question their sincerity. But equality is really everybody's fight.
Attending a college, which was founded by many suffragists, the emphasis on women college graduates (then a statistical minority) was especially sobering. Despite our current knowledge of women's studies and gender theory, I don't think my generation (including myself) appreciates how fortunate we are when we would have been jeered at in earlier generations for receiving a college degree. After seeing this movie, I walked across my own campus trying to imagine some of the local townspeople (opposed to the idea of women receiving a college education in their town) threatening us on a near constant basis.
Precisely because Paul's Equal Rights Amendment was not ratified by the required states by the 1982 deadline, the film ends on a melancholy note. Paul's work remains half-finished and we have moral obligation to ensure the ERA becomes part of the constitution.
Encouraging viewers to complete the revolution, the movie turns armchair loungers into activists.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
 
|
|
|
|
|
|
44 of 49 people found the following review helpful:
While not perfect, I applaud this film. It made me think., December 11, 2004
This 2004 HBO movie depicts the struggles of the early suffragette movement, which eventually gave women in the United States the right to vote. Spanning the years from 1912 to 1920, it stars Hilary Swank as Alice Paul who led the fight with ultimate courage. There's some interesting history of which I was unaware. And the filmmakers seem to get the theme across. At the time, it was a state-by-state decision as to whether or not women could vote. But Alice Paul wanted to make it a constitutional amendment. There is, of course, is in-fighting in the movement itself with the old factions, led by Anjelica Huston, as Carrie Chapman Catt, preferring to not make a fuss and quietly let each state decide. Alice Paul, however, confronted the establishment head on and brought down some dour consequences on herself and the group of women who followed her lead.
At first I was annoyed at the film. I felt their wardrobes too lavish and the potential romance between Alice and a Washington Post cartoonist was silly. I also thought the women seemed a bit too modern and politically correct. And, frankly, I thought of turning off my DVD and never reviewing this film.
But then there was a scene in which the police turned their backs on protecting a festive parade in which women and children were demonstrating. When the mobs attacked the women I felt real tears dripping down my face. And then, later, when the women were horribly mistreated in prison, I found myself crying again, especially when they force-fed Alice Paul and we see them pushing tubes down her throat and through her nose. By the end of the film I understood exactly what these brave women had gone through in order to give me a privilege that I take for granted. I also know that I have learned a new appreciation for my right to vote and will never take that right for granted again.
While not perfect, I applaud this film. It brought me a new understanding. It will bring it to you too. Recommended.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
19 of 19 people found the following review helpful:
Best Suffrage Movie I've Seen, August 8, 2004
As a big fan of historical films, I always get nervous before seeing a movie whose subject is one that I am passionate about. Therefore I was quite apprehensive about this movie.
Turns out, it was the best pull off of all suffrace films. Touching and accurate, with the right amount of heart, humour, and intelligence, this movie made for an enjoyable and educating experience. It reminded me why I am glad to be a woman.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:
The Hard-Fought Victory for Women's Suffrage., September 19, 2004
"Iron Jawed Angels" dramatizes the last leg of the fight to win the right to vote for American women. It focuses on the work of young suffragettes Alice Paul (Hilary Swank) and Lucy Burns (Frances O'Conner) from their arrival in Washington, D.C. in 1912 until just before the 19th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified in 1920. Paul and Burns represented the younger generation of suffragettes who were less willing to bide their time playing politics until the nation's politicians came around to their way of thinking. They were brash, bold, brave and so self-righteous that they must have thought themselves invincible. But the time for extreme tactics had come, and even picketing President Woodrow Wilson during the US's involvement in World War I ultimately produced good results, though at a high price. "Iron Jawed Angels" follows Paul and Burns' fight for the vote through their atttention-stealing Inauguration Day parade in 1912, attempts to lobby Congress, their split with the National Women's Suffrage Association, formation of the National Women's Party, their 1916 cross-country trip to rally voters against any Democratic candidate who opposed a constitutional amendment giving women the vote, and their imprisonment for picketing a wartime president and subsequent hunger strike. There is constant strife between Alice Paul and the older generation of suffragettes, who are experienced in the ways of government and politically savvy, but disdain the obnoxious tactics that the younger generation embrace. Most notable of the older generation of suffragettes is Carrie Chapman Catt, played to perfection by Angelica Huston, who is imposing and clever, if old-fashioned.
Director Katja von Garnier has brought this story to life with a stellar cast and contemporary style. The film and sound editing are bold. The soundtrack is modern and upbeat. I questioned that decision when I first heard contemporary pop sounds pumping as Alice Paul crossed a street in 1912. But the style grew on me, and I came to appreciate the director's unconventional but oddly effective choices in scoring the film. The cast is great. Hilary Swank hits just the right note as Alice Paul -over and over again. I have never liked Frances O'Conner in anything, but she's perfect as Lucy Burns. It's a joy to hear Anjelica Huston speak as Carrie Chapman Catt, even if she is a stuffy character. Molly Parker gives perhaps the most emotionally affecting performance as Emily Leighton, wife of Senator Thomas Leighton, who supported the suffrage cause against her husband's wishes. Hers is an Oscar-calibre performance. Julia Ormond and Bob Gunton are also notable as suffragette Inez Mulholland and Pres. Woodrow Wilson, respectively. "Iron Jawed Angels" creatively and passionately presents the victory for women's suffrage and the story of those who fought and won it.
The DVD: There is an audio commentary by director Katja von Garnier and screenwriter Sally Robinson. The commentary is very casual and discusses filming and sound editing decisions and recounts a few anecdotes. It's honestly not very informative or interesting. No need to feel you missed anything if you skip it. Subtitles for the film are available in English, Spanish, and French. Dubbing is available in Spanish and French.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
14 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
Absolutely beautiful....., July 8, 2004
I loved this movie - it was eloquently written, cast, and filmed. The acting was beautiful, smart, and memorable. The filming talent was flawless. I've seen it 4 times now, and I am still deeply moved every time. I can't wait until it comes out on video - I'll be among the first to purchase it!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
16 of 18 people found the following review helpful:
Iron Jawed Angels, July 17, 2004
I happened to be channel surfing one night in a hotel and came across this movie. This is without a doubt one of the most important movies to have ever been made. Hilary Swank is at her very best in this. There are scenes in this move that I still play over and over in my head. Every woman and girl in this country should see this movie. If they did they would never not vote again. Every man should see this movie - if they did they would ensure every woman in their lives saw it and and voted in every election. This is a definite must see!!!
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
Suffrage still strong today, June 28, 2004
By A Customer
This film came out at just the right time. Not only is it's statement still relevant, it is beautifully scripted, cast and filmed. Hillary Swank is at her very best.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:
Iron Jawed, Iron Will, December 12, 2004
Has HBO films just been on a roll lately, or what? From making the critically acclaimed and beautifully haunting miniseries "Angels in America", to the late Peter Sellers biopic, they seem to have cornered the market on creative, intellectually powerful films. Case in point: the beautifully haunting and critically acclaimed movie about the women's sufferage movement called "Iron Jawed Angels".
Recounting the desire to give women the right to vote, "Iron Jawed Angels" spans eight years in that divisive, poltically charged movement of people truly desiring equality. Played brilliantly by Hilary Swank, sufferagette Alice Paul becomes the powerhouse behind the movement, taking it from what was a more genteel group of women to one championing civil disobdience. Taking up the cause with her, Lucy Burns, played by Aussie actress Frances O'Connor, the two become an fiercesome force.
One thing that's amazing about this video is how little of a deal it is today that women vote. No one gives it a second thought. But back then, people were rioting over the fact that women wanted a voice in their own government. It makes me wonder how many causes today, when people look back 80 years from now, they will wonder what the big deal was at all.
Little has ever been taught about the price these women have paid in schools, but this video, and the contribution they have made should be taught across this country, period.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
Inspiration and Eduacational, August 18, 2005
Not only did I find the story of Alice Paul (Hilary Swank) fascinating, but I also appreciated Hollywood's willingness to tell a truth and not a fairytale. Paul's activism for woman suffrage in the United States during the 1910s is chronicled in this movie. Although my fellow reviews criticize the superfluous aspects of the movie (a love interest and random small talk), it helps to describes Paul's drive and determination to achieve the right for women to vote. The writer and director of the movie "Iron Jawed Angels" did their homework to find the true Alice Paul, and it is evident for anyone who has studied the women suffragists of the 1910s. Whether you believe that Paul's radical tactics made her a hero or stain on America's history pages, Swank deserves every acclaim for her portrayal of the emotion and fever for the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
Surprisingly fresh and highly relevant, March 3, 2005
I rented this film mostly because I'm a huge fan of Frances O'Connor and want to see everything she's in. She's my favorite actress, and I never fail to be impressed by her grace, humour and heart. She always charms, and this role is no exception. Hilary Swank was a pleasant surprise, as I've never seen any of her films, yet she shines in this one as Alice Paul--a pioneer in women's rights, forsaking love for a cause. In one of the most profound lines I ever heard, she tells Lucy that as an individual, she has the right to make any choice she wants, but love would obligate her in a way that she would no longer have that choice because she'd be committed to what's best for the relationship.
This film surprised me by its very impressive cast...including Angelica Huston in some cool looking hats, Julia Ormond as the lady on the horse in their first march on Capitol Hill, and Patrick Dempsey as the Washington Post Reporter who falls for Alice Paul. It was also nice to see President Woodrow Wilson onscreen and learn that things haven't changed so much in our country (for all our talk about freedom of speech, Americans truly are a censorous bunch when the person speaking raises uncomfortable questions about our commitments to what we claim to believe, as written in our Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights).
I really love the hip style of filmmaking the producers used to make history alive and exciting, with some interesting shots (particularly the 360-degree shot at the end of the film, the intercuts of people's speeches, etc) and some current music to drive home the beats (Lauryn Hill's "Everything is Everythin" and Vertical Horizon's one hit wonder song). Historical purists might be alarmed and cry foul, but I think its a fresh touch for what might have easily been a "boring period film" shown on PBS or the BBC. This film has modern sensibilities and was easily able to maintain my interest throughout. This film stands as an example of how to make a historical film be interesting and fresh to a younger generation.
The scenes in prison were alarming, and all of it is new to me, as I never learned about any of this in high school or college history classes. For that, I thank the filmmakers for bringing this topic to the screen. I learned a lot and after watching this film, it makes me want to learn more. That's the best that filmmakers can aim for. All in all, a film worthy of being shown in high school history classes or required course assignments in college, discussed at length and to serve as an intro before diving into the subject of voting rights. This film is an example that freedom is never given up by those in power. At every step of the way, people must demand rights and not be afraid to pay the ultimate price for their demands. This film deserves to serve as an inspiring call for any group that seeks to change our government to act in keeping with its words and founding principles. If the people don't rise up and demand their rights be respected, no one else will. History has shown it again and again, and this film is a perfect reminder of how far we've come...but also how much things haven't changed either. See it...be inspired...act.
Help other customers find the most helpful reviews
Was this review helpful to you?
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
Customers who viewed this item also viewed
|
|
| |
|
|
|
