Watch Bernice Bobs Her Hair

Bernice Bobs Her Hair is a 1976 made-for-TV movie that explores the social dynamics of a group of young people in the 1920s. The film stars Shelley Duvall as Bernice, a socially awkward girl from a small town who goes to visit her cousin, Marjorie (Veronica Cartwright), in the city. From the outset, it is apparent that Marjorie is much more comfortable in social situations than Bernice, and she is eager to help her cousin fit in with her group of friends. Marjorie and her friends are all wealthy and sophisticated, living a fast-paced, glamorous lifestyle that Bernice is not accustomed to.

Despite her cousin's support, Bernice has trouble fitting in with the cool crowd. She is shy and awkward, and her attempts to make small talk come across as ingratiating. However, she catches the eye of Warren (Bud Cort), a young man who is initially drawn to her unconventional personality.

As the film progresses, Marjorie devises a plan to help Bernice fit in better. She convinces Bernice to get a fashionable haircut - a bob - and teaches her how to flirt and be more assertive. However, the plan backfires when Bernice becomes too successful at flirting, and Marjorie and her friends turn on her.

The movie offers a fascinating look into the social dynamics of the 1920s. The characters are all obsessed with maintaining their social status, and they view success in terms of popularity and sexual conquests. The portrayal of wealthy, privileged young people grappling with their sexuality is particularly interesting - this was a theme that was not often explored in mainstream media at the time.

The main focus of the plot is Bernice's transformation from a socially awkward girl to a confident, assertive woman. Shelley Duvall gives an excellent performance as Bernice, expertly conveying the character's insecurity and desperation to fit in. Her transformation is gradual, and it is clear that she is not entirely comfortable with the person she becomes.

Veronica Cartwright is also superb as Bernice's cousin Marjorie. Her character is manipulative and self-serving, and she is willing to use anyone - including her own cousin - to get ahead. However, Cartwright brings a vulnerability to the character that makes her more than just a one-dimensional villain.

Bud Cort's character, Warren, serves as a love interest for Bernice. However, unlike many male characters in movies of this era, Warren is not a stereotypical "bad boy." He is shy and sensitive, and his attraction to Bernice is genuine. Cort's performance is understated but effective, and he and Duvall have excellent chemistry on screen.

The movie's themes are relevant even today. The pressure to conform to societal norms and maintain a certain level of popularity and status is still a concern for many people, particularly teenagers. Bernice's struggle to fit in is something that many viewers will relate to, and her eventual rejection of these societal pressures is inspiring.

The film is well shot and has a beautiful score that perfectly captures the mood and atmosphere of the era. The costumes and set design are fantastic, and they transport the viewer back to the 1920s.

Overall, Bernice Bobs Her Hair is an excellent movie that offers a fascinating glimpse into the social mores of the 1920s. The themes are timeless, and the performances by Shelley Duvall, Veronica Cartwright, and Bud Cort are fantastic. Although it was made for TV over four decades ago, the movie remains relevant and thought-provoking, and it is well worth a watch.

Bernice Bobs Her Hair is a 1976 comedy with a runtime of 48 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.