She-Devil

Synopsis

She-Devil is a dark comedy that follows the life of Ruth Patchett, a devoted housewife played by Meryl Streep, whose mundane world is turned upside down when her husband, Bob (played by Ed Begley Jr.), falls in love with a glamorous romance novelist, Mary Fisher (played by Rosanna Arquette). Fueled by betrayal and resentment, Ruth embarks on a journey of revenge, aiming to dismantle Bob's idyllic fantasy and reclaim her life. With an acerbic wit and a desire for empowerment, Ruth transforms from a downtrodden woman into a fierce force of nature. The film explores themes of self-discovery and the complexities of marriage, wrapped in a satirical take on love and traditional gender roles. Meryl Streep's performance shines in this quirky tale of vengeance, pushing the boundaries of societal expectations as she crafts a persona that is both hilarious and heartbreaking. As Ruth wreaks havoc in the lives of her husband and his new lover, she discovers her own strength, ultimately turning the tables on those who have wronged her, all while delivering witty commentary on femininity and ambition.

Cast

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  Meryl Streep

  Mary Fisher

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  Roseanne Barr

  Ruth Patchett

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  Ed Begley Jr.

  Bob Patchett

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  Linda Hunt

  Hooper

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  Sylvia Miles

  Mrs. Fisher

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  Elisebeth Peters

  Nicolette Patchett

Reviews

Critics have had mixed feelings about She-Devil since its release in 1989. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a rating of 48%, indicating a divided audience reception. According to the site, some viewers appreciate the film's offbeat humor and poignant moments, while others criticize it for its uneven tone and pacing. The New York Times remarked on Meryl Streep's standout performance, saying, 'Streep delivers yet another unforgettable character that showcases her versatility and comedic timing.' However, they noted the film often veers into predictability. IMDb users rate it at 5.7/10, highlighting that while it may not be a classic, it offers a unique take on the revenge genre. Metacritic reflects a score of 45/100, indicating mixed or average reviews. A review from The Los Angeles Times pointed out that 'the film presents a daring critique of suburban life and the lengths women will go to for self-empowerment,' though it lamented the lack of depth in character development. Overall, while She-Devil may not resonate with all due to its style and narrative, Meryl Streep's performance remains a frequent point of praise, ensuring its place as a cult classic in comedic cinema.