trinka-42782 I rated this high because any film that stays on your mind for weeks afterward means it had an impact. that being said, I also have to admit that this is one film that I never want to watch again...unless I am introducing it to someone.the viewer is going to go through some very deep valleys during this movie. how many of us have felt that it would be easier to step off the bus at our own discretion than to ride it to the end of the line? it begs you to question your own morality and mortality. spacek approaches her character with an understanding of feeling so exhausted from the life she is living from the moment she begins to explain herself to Bancroft. and, even though she is determined to end her life on her terms, she shows great compassion towards her mother, knowing that she will never truly be understood regarding her decision.Bancroft embodies the emotional roller-coaster of being a helpless mother witnessing her child made what she feels is a terrible mistake. running the gamut between supportive to berating to acceptance to the final desperation will take your breath away.some feel that this is a very depressing movie and I can understand why they feel that way. in my opinion, it does bring you low but it makes you question what would be your bottom line in order to make such a decision.

TheJesusAndMaryChain I saw this film when it first came out on video. A friend told me about it and I was so compelled by the story that I rented it. I was mesmerized and haunted by the ending. This film has stuck with me over the years. As an epileptic who suffers from depression, I could really identify with the Jesse character and how she feels like an outcast and a burden to those around her. At times, I felt as if that could be me up there. The film is based on a play so it very much feels like one in that it explores the relationship between two characters through dialog. There isn't much action but the performances are so intense and powerful, that you don't really need it. If depression and suicide are outside your comfort zone, then this film isn't for you but if you're into character studies and theatre this is one you don't want to miss. Bancroft and Spacek play so well off each other that it really pulls you in and leaves you...almost in a state of shock.

Kate I had the privilege of seeing this powerful play on Broadway with Kathy Bates in the lead. I only saw one other play in the 1970's-1990's that had an emotional impact like this play did. I really looked forward to the play being made into a movie but was very disappointed when I learned that Kathy Bates wouldn't reprise her role in the film--she wasn't well known off Broadway at the time and the producers must have wanted star power I suppose and cast Sissy Spacek instead. Sissy did an adequate job in the lead role but did not measure up to Kathy Bates in any way. I love Anne Bancroft but she seemed too young for this role. The movie plot was true to the play. Anyone who ever contemplates suicide should have to watch this movie to realize the devastation on those who are left behind.

MarieGabrielle Anyone who has experienced a tragedy like this will relate, although I will caution you to give yourself a grace period. I had not seen the play, but the film with Spacek as the disaffected and resigned suicidal daughter, and Anne Bancroft as the loving, confused and overwhelmed mother.This is a complex and disturbing issue. At the very outset, Spacek has already made up her mind, and is cleaning and ordering kitchen pots and pans, food and bills, in preparation for her demise.Anne Bancroft attempts to take her daughter out of it discussing mundane neighbors, things they may do in the future, etc. Spacek is classic, we merely need to see her affect and facial expressions to realize: emotionally she is already gone, removed from the physical world. Both actresses deliver astounding, insightful performances.Those who are interested in this theme may also appreciate the original film, "The Bell Jar", with Julie Harris and Marilyn Hassett (circa 1979) which dissects the complex dynamics and denial of crisis between mother and daughter, and the resulting effects. Another film I would highly recommend is the lesser known film (circa 1982)with Chad Lowe, Howard Hesseman, Mariette Hartley (who lost her own father to suicide) and Charlie Sheen, a very astute portrayal of suicide and family dynamics. All these films are highly recommended, particularly due to the sensitive treatment of this important, and often avoided subject matter. 10/10.