Plot Synopsis

Updated contemporary version of stage play by Robert Harling. In a small Louisiana town six women routinely gather at Truvy's beauty salon to share the stories of their lives. Over the course of several years, the women celebrate the good times and struggle through the bad times -- from births to deaths and marriage to divorce -- each relying on their strong bond of friendship to help them navigate the vicissitudes of life. There is Shelby, a diabetic who decides to go ahead with a risky pregnancy. There is M'Lynn, the mother of Shelby who is constantly worried about her daughter's health. There is Annelle, who is running from her past and trying to fit into the community. There is "Ouiser," the town grouch and a well-off widow; her soft side is brought out when women in her life need her most. There is Clairee, a fun-loving widow who enjoys gossip as well as cracking jokes at Ouiser's expense. And there is Truvy, a high-spirited "glamour specialist" who has strained relationships with her husband and son.