The 24 Hour Woman Review
by Joy Wyse (jwyse AT onlineworks DOT com)February 23rd, 1999
Review: THE 24 HOUR WOMAN
Starring: Rosie Perez, Marianne Jean Baptize, Patty Lupone
Directed by: Nancy Savoca
Review by: Joy Wyse, the SILVER Screen Critic
A cable TV show, “The 24 Hour Woman”, is the focal point of this “real life” story. The male host of the show learns, on the air, that he is to become a father. The show’s Producer is the mother. That role is played by Rosie Perez. Rosie’s voice, usually grating to the ear, is a bit less strident here. She’s a bit easier to endure.
The event becomes a “ratings” booster as they follow Rosie through her pregnancy, incorporating various experts on children, pregnancy, etc. as guests on the show. That part is delightful, but, after their daughter is born and the couple must cope with the problems confronting working mothers today, it gets a little heavy.
The more interesting story belongs to Marianne Jean Baptize [of Secrets and Lies] who plays Rosie’s assistant. Marianne, the mother of three children, has gone back to work because her husband is out of work. They have a lovely relationship. It’s a shame that they didn’t pursue that story further. He feels bad that he is no longer the breadwinner so he helps her with the chores and with the children. Despite jeers from his male friends he becomes a sort of Mr. Mom. The difference is obvious between him and Rosie’s husband who is quick to take the plaudits associated with fatherhood, but none of the work that’s entailed. His actions cause his and Rosie’s relationship and marriage to disintegrate. Her work suffers more and more.
There’s too much reality here. It isn’t a feel-good film by any means. It just endorses the backbreaking work of a real 24-hour woman. It’s not easy. I give it a C.
SEE YOU AT THE MOVIES!
More on 'The 24 Hour Woman'...
Originally posted in the rec.arts.movies.reviews newsgroup. Copyright belongs to original author unless otherwise stated. We take no responsibilities nor do we endorse the contents of this review.
