FRIED GREEN TOMATOES   4.0***

      'Fried Green Tomatoes' is a deliciously delightful “feel good” film that tells dual stories of four women. The story of Evelyn and Ninny ( 1980s) deals with various themes such as age, loneliness, feeling useless and unappreciated and love; while Ruth and Idgie's story (1920 to 1930s) told by Ninny to Evelyn is about devotion, compassion, courage, racism and love. However, at heart, 'Fried Green Tomatoes' is about friendship.

Fannie Flagg adapts the screenplay from her very own novel and gives it a poetic feel.  Director Jon Avnet  expertly has the movie tell the story of four incredibly strong women with grace and sincerity.  

'Fried Green Tomatoes' showcases four marvelous performances. The late Jessica Tandy (as the vivacious and friendly Ninny,  the storyteller) who is always a delight to watch on screen, Kathy Bates (as the shy pushover who transforms into the strong independent Evelyn), Mary Louise-Parker (as the vulnerable yet courageous Ruth) and Mary Stuart Masterson (as Idgie the free-spirited kind-hearted tomboy) are all first rate. Thanks to them the connection and love between the characters shines brightly the screen. Cicely Tyson deserves special mention in a wonderful supporting role.

'Fried Green Tomatoes' is a movie that will pleasantly surprise and delight you. 'Fried Green Tomatoes' is primarily about, having a best friend, and being a best friend.

Clark

PS: Mary Stuart Masterson did all of the bee stunts herself because her stunt double refused and quit at the last minute.