Watch Coming Up Roses

Coming Up Roses is a 2011 American drama film directed by Lisa Albright, starring Bernadette Peters, Rachel Brosnahan, and Peter Friedman. The movie is set in the 1980s and follows the story of Diane, a single mother who struggles to keep her family together amidst financial troubles, personal conflicts, and emotional turmoil. Diane, played by the award-winning actress Bernadette Peters, is a former beauty queen who had a dream of becoming a singer in Broadway. However, after marrying a man who turned out to be abusive, Diane was forced to leave her dreams behind and raise her two daughters, Alice and Dolores, on her own.

Alice, played by Rachel Brosnahan, is a rebellious teenager who resents her mother for dragging her from one town to another in search of a better life. She is tired of living in poverty and wants to escape her small town and become a writer. Her sister, Dolores, on the other hand, is more compliant and supportive of her mother's efforts.

The film revolves around Diane's attempt to revive her career as a singer by opening a bar in a rundown neighborhood. The bar, which she calls "The Paradise," becomes the center of the family's universe, but it also brings new challenges and dangers.

As Diane struggles to keep her business afloat, she also has to deal with the consequences of her past mistakes, her strained relationships with her daughters, and her growing alcohol addiction. Meanwhile, Alice's wanton behavior leads her to a troubled romance with a local gang member, while Dolores develops a friendship with an elderly neighbor who has a heart condition.

The film is a heart-wrenching portrayal of a family trying to survive in a world that seems to be against them. It shows the struggles of a mother who is determined to give her daughters a better life despite her flaws and limitations. Bernadette Peters gives an outstanding performance as Diane, bringing depth and vulnerability to her character. Her interactions with Rachel Brosnahan and Peter Friedman, who plays the role of the bar manager, are genuine and captivating.

Rachel Brosnahan, who would later gain recognition for her breakout role in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, also delivers a convincing performance as the angst-ridden Alice. Her character is complex, troubled, and vulnerable, but also full of potential and creativity.

Peter Friedman's character, Lenny, adds a layer of humor and warmth to the movie. He is the voice of reason in the chaos that is Diane's life, and his interactions with her develop into a touching and heartfelt friendship.

The film's cinematography captures the grit and beauty of the 1980s New York, with its rundown buildings, graffiti, and neon signs. The music, which ranges from classic Broadway tunes to contemporary pop songs, adds emotional depth to the story and emphasizes the characters' struggles and aspirations.

Overall, Coming Up Roses is a powerful and poignant movie that showcases the talent of its cast, the vision of its director, and the beauty of its setting. It is a film about hope, redemption, and the strength of the human spirit, and it is worth watching for anyone who loves a good drama.