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Girlfriends is a 1978 film directed by Claudia Weill and written by Weill and Vicki Polon. The film follows the story of two young women, Susan Weinblatt and Anne Munroe, as they navigate life in their early twenties in New York City in the 1970s. Susan Weinblatt, played by Melanie Mayron, is a struggling photographer working odd jobs to make ends meet. She dreams of success as an artist, but finds it difficult to make headway in the male-dominated field. Her roommate and best friend, Anne Munroe, played by Anita Skinner, is an aspiring writer who also works a series of jobs to pay the rent.

The two friends are inseparable, and their bond is strengthened by their shared struggles and dreams. However, when Anne decides to get married and move out, Susan is left to grapple with loneliness and uncertainty about her future.

As Susan struggles to find her place in the world, she meets a cast of characters who challenge her beliefs and offer her new perspectives. Eli Wallach plays Martin, an aging photographer who becomes Susan's mentor and friend. Christopher Guest plays Eric, a wealthy businessman who becomes Susan's lover, but who also leaves her feeling disillusioned about her priorities.

Throughout the film, Susan must confront her own fears and insecurities, as well as the societal expectations placed upon her as a young woman in the 1970s. At the same time, she finds solace in her photography, using her art to capture the beauty and complexity of the world around her.

Girlfriends explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the challenges facing women in pursuit of their dreams. The film has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of female friendship and its honest depiction of the struggles faced by young artists in New York City.

Beyond its critical acclaim, Girlfriends has become a cult classic and a touchstone for many women who identify with Susan's journey. The film's timeless themes and relatable characters continue to resonate with audiences today, nearly four decades after its initial release.

In summary, Claudia Weill's Girlfriends is a poignant and humorous examination of the challenges faced by young women pursuing their dreams in 1970s New York City. Through the eyes of protagonist Susan Weinblatt, played brilliantly by Melanie Mayron, the film explores themes such as friendship, romance, creativity, and self-discovery. Wallach, Guest, and Skinner deliver strong supporting performances, but the movie's real heart lies in its honest portrayal of its protagonist's journey from self-doubt to self-assurance. Highly recommended for anyone interested in character-driven drama or the feminist cinema of the 1970s.

Girlfriends is a 1978 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.