I’ve only seen one other Woody Allen film –“Midnight in Paris” – which I really enjoyed. His 1986 effort “Hannah and Her Sisters” comes with high praise. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards and would win three, and ranks as one of Allen’s most successful films at the box office.
The film does some things quite well. Allen would serve as writer and director. His witty dialogue is excellent. The grit of a true New York City filmmaker is consistent throughout the picture. Despite beginning and ending at Thanksgiving dinners, it lacks traditional holiday merriment. In layman’s terms, it’s a well-crafted film but not nearly as enjoyable as the aforementioned “Midnight in Paris.”
The story follows an extended family, centered on the titular Hannah (Mia Farrow) and her sisters; Holly and Lee, played by Dianne Wiest and Barbara Hershey. Sir Michael Caine plays Hannah’s husband, Elliot while Woody Allen plays Mickey – her ex-husband.
The writing is excellent.
There’s a highly intricate structure that, I’ll admit, confused me at times. Elliot is lusting after Lee. Lee is conflicted. On one hand she loves her sister. On the other hand she is in an open relationship with the snooty Frederick (Max Von Sydow) and actually has feelings for Elliot.
Meanwhile Holly is a struggling actress and recovering addict. She operates a catering business with her friend April (Carrie Fisher) and competes with her for the affections of a dashing architect (Sam Waterston). Holly uses Hannah for financial means while taking advantage of her sisterly love.
The plots stand alone and are woven together. The film opens at Thanksgiving dinner, and ends at Thanksgiving dinner two years later. I got lost a bit following the sisters and their respective men, who are all similar in appearance, wardrobe and demeanor (save for Allen).
The acting is superb. It’s a true mix of comedy and drama. The stars shine as one would expect. Caine and Wiest each took Best Supporting Actor/Actress awards. And the depth is extraordinary. Lloyd Nolan and Maureen O’Sullivan are hysterical as Hannah’s parents. And brief cameos from Daniel Stern and Julia Louis-Dreyfus are a nice addition.
Iconic Influence
Woody Allen’s character Mickey was easily my favorite part of the film. Mickey is a successful television writer and hypochondriac. He fears illness and death – having something of an existential crisis that leads him on a journey outside of the Hannah plotline. Mickey is a hysterical character, and Allen is flat out brilliant with the performance, belting laugh out loud lines every scene he is in.
At a fertility clinic Mickey quickly advises the sperm donor “I would be the father, you would just have to masturbate into a little cup.” I could easily spot the influence Woody Allen’s comedy and persona would have on Larry David and the soon to be created ‘Seinfeld’ series. As a filmmaker, Allen showcases his hometown of New York City in a way that makes me giddy. Its 1986, its standard definition. You get what I’m saying. I plan to check out more of his work in the future.
“Hannah and Her Sisters” is a solid film with a subtle Thanksgiving backdrop. It can be enjoyed with or without cranberries.
“Hannah and Her Sisters” is currently available to stream on Amazon
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