Watch The Women of Brewster Place

The Women of Brewster Place is a 1989 drama film based on the novel of the same name by Gloria Naylor. The film features an ensemble cast of talented actresses such as Oprah Winfrey, Mary Alice, and Olivia Cole. The movie tells the story of a group of diverse women and their struggles to survive in a deteriorating urban neighborhood. The women are connected by their shared experiences of disappointment, heartbreak, and survival. The story takes place in Brewster Place, a rundown housing complex in an unnamed city. The movie portrays the harsh realities of life for impoverished women and the oppressive conditions they live in. Furthermore, it explores themes of poverty, racism, sexism, homophobia, and violence.

The protagonist of the movie is Mattie Michael, played by Mary Alice. She is a strong-willed woman who serves as a mother figure to the other women in the complex. Mattie is a deeply religious woman and her faith is tested by the challenges she faces in her life. She is haunted by the secret of her son's father, who was a married man. Her fear of being judged by her peers prevents her from leaving Brewster Place to start a new life elsewhere.

Another central character is Etta Mae Johnson, played by Oprah Winfrey. Etta is a single mother who is struggling to take care of her young daughter. She is also pregnant with her second child and is desperately trying to make ends meet. Etta is a survivor and is determined to better her life despite the numerous obstacles she faces.

Kiswana Browne, played by Robin Givens, is a young woman who is determined to make a difference in her community. She is educated and comes from a wealthy family, but chooses to live in Brewster Place to be closer to the people who need her help. She is met with resistance from the other women who do not understand her passion for social justice.

Cora Lee, played by Olivia Cole, is an elderly woman who has lived in Brewster Place for many years. She is a former beauty queen who is now struggling with alcoholism and depression. Her tragic past and the loss of her son have left her broken and vulnerable.

The movie presents a realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by women in predominantly African American communities. The characters are multidimensional with complex relationships and interactions. The film also touches on issues such as the AIDS epidemic and its impact on the community.

The Women of Brewster Place does an excellent job of exploring the complexities of women's lives and is a poignant reminder of the importance of sisterhood and community. The film is an emotional and powerful portrayal of the struggles of women in impoverished communities.

In conclusion, The Women of Brewster Place is a must-see for anyone interested in social justice issues and women's experiences. The film features strong performances from an ensemble cast and tells a profound story of resilience and strength in the face of adversity. It is a timeless movie that continues to resonate with audiences today.

The Women of Brewster Place is a 1989 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 59 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.