The 24 Hour Woman

The 24 HOUR WOMAN is great. Too bad many people didn't see it. Rent or buy the video. The much maligned Rosie Perez gives a knockout performance in the title role, enhanced by her character's assistant, an unrecognizable Marianne Jean-Baptiste ("Secrets and Lies") with an impeccable American accent, a 24 hour woman herself. Patti Lupone as the wicked boss is at her most ferociously evil. Only Glenn Close may have been able to vilify this character as the superb Patti LuPone does (We see too little of her on the screen, so take advantage of this film to see this terrific actress in a deliciously despicable role). A good script addressing contemporary issues, and creative cinematography in real New York settings further contribute to this film's appeal.

Rosie Perez has been in great films: "Fearless" (Oscar nominations), "It Could Happen to You," and "The Twenty-Four Hour Woman." In this film, Perez is wonderful as a producer who juggles a man, a job, and pregnancy in her 30s. With a competent supporting cast including Marianne Jean-Baptiste, Karen Duffy, and Aida Turturro, this film, with a delightful screenplay and a highly-overlooked and exceptional leading lady, is one not to miss. (7/10)

Somehow I missed this when it came out at the movies, I don't think it was publicized enough! This was a fast-paced, funny and uplifting story. I found the behind the scenes world of television production reminiscent of Broadcast News, with the hectic pace and career-driven personalities. Patti Lupone's "do anything for ratings" character was outrageous! Rosie Perez was excellent as a television producer juggling career and a new baby, set in the NY media market. The movie's pace was quick and it was over before I knew it. If you liked Baby Boom, Working Girl or Broadcast News this is a good movie for you.

I agree that there was excessive profanity, but that wouldn't bother me so much. What I don't like is that she waved a gun at her husband and everybody else, and yet he didn't leave her. Many people like her are under pressure and don't wave a loaded gun around. I think we're supposed to sympathize with her for this, but I don't. She gets arrested for trying to jump the turnstile and arguing with a cop, but not for waving the gun. If your spouse waves a gun at you, even if she doesn't fire it, you should get out now, because the next time she may fire it. People have to try to deal with their anger in other ways. What her husband said right before she got angry and said he was a liar, I repeated it several times and still don't understand what he said that got her so mad.

We thought this movie was excellent. Rosie Perez and Marianne Jean-Baptiste went through similar but different problems as working mothers. Marianne had problems getting her out-of-work husband to take care of the kids, Rosie had problems dealing with a brand new baby that cried constantly! The plot, the acting and the characters were believable and compelling. We loved it!