A Will of Their Own

I like this movie because of its noble attempt to cover women's impact on the twentieth century. Although at times it was not accurate, and it sacrificed quality for melodrama, this was an engaging movie with some interesting characters. I looked forward to it, and though it did not live up to my expectations, I would watch it again.

When this movie came on, I was glued to the seat. It's one of those movies that you feel like you are right there and can identify with and feel for the characters. A movie that shows women independence and true love is one that you will need a tissue for, no doubt. 8 out of 10.

Seven years ago, I recall, I watched this movie over the course of it's playing on the television, much to my parents annoyance (they preferred the sitcoms to movies). I tried to record the movie, knowing I would want to see it again,but alas, my VCR stopped working, and the tape never worked properly. Since then, I've tried to find a copy of the movie, looking at all of the local video rental places, movie shops, blockbusters and everywhere else I could think to look, except the internet....then today I decided to look up Lea Thompson's filmography. Go figure, I'd learn it's under a different working title and I'd never find it here under "A Will of Their Own." Anyway, to the comment I am getting at, This movie has stayed in my mind for seven years. I was eleven or twelve when I watched it for the first time, and I still, though I cannot recall all of it, recommend it to anyone who comes across it. Watch it!

This is an excellent docudrama about women in the 20th century. Ellen Burstyn proves to be the best performer as a stiff high society matron. Although some of the acting was a bit weak the other performers were still great especially Michael Muhney and Elizabeth Marvin. Costumes and Art/Set decoration was wonderful and this is an Emmy bound movie. It completely changes your view of men during the turn-of-the-century. This truly is a mini-series to see. It could not have been done better.

My Score 9.8/10

Historical inaccuracies aside, I think this is a wonderful movie for women. It's a TV miniseries so the acting is not Oscar worthy, but it is an overall good movie with something to say. I watch this with my mother at least once every couple months. It shows women who are determined, strong-willed, independent and driven. This was quite unusual for the time period the movie is set in. It transits well throughout the years it is set and I found myself crying in the end. I love how it shows different and important times for women throughout history. I also liked how it shows the role women played throughout world war one and world war two. Lea Thompson overacts at times and when she is supposed to be playing a 17 year old it is just obvious that she is not. I would recommend every female to watch this movie just once and form your own opinion about it.