Something to Talk About, released in theaters on August 4, 1995, is a sharp, witty, and surprisingly heartfelt film that remains just as relevant today as it was nearly three decades ago. Anchored by a superb performance from Julia Roberts, the movie delves into the complex dynamics of family, the double standards of small-town life, and the journey of a woman finding her own identity.
It’s a film that perfectly captures the frustration and eventual catharsis of a woman who decides she’s had enough, leading to a legacy as a touchstone of female empowerment in the ’90s.
The plot centers on Grace King Bichon (Roberts), a seemingly content wife and mother living in a wealthy, conservative Southern community where her family is a pillar of society. Her life, however, is turned upside down when she catches her husband, Eddie (Dennis Quaid), cheating on her.
Instead of quietly handling the scandal as her family expects, Grace has a very public, very loud meltdown. She refuses to conform to expectations, leaving her home and demanding a separation, much to the horror of her traditionalist father, Wyly King (Robert Duvall), and her mother, Georgia (Gena Rowlands).
Grace’s very public rebellion becomes the “something to talk about” in her tight-knit community, forcing everyone to confront their own secrets and hypocrisies.
The film beautifully explores the push-and-pull between Grace and her fiery sister Emma Rae (Kyra Sedgwick), who becomes her staunchest defender, and the emotional toll her actions take on her parents. Sedgwick’s performance as the fiercely loyal and foul-mouthed sister is a particular highlight.
Lasse Hallström, known for My Life as a Dog (1985), What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993), The Cider House Rules (1999), and Chocolat (2000) directed the film.
Julia Roberts in Something to Talk About (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Reception for Something to Talk About
Something to Talk About grossed $11.1 million on its opening weekend, finishing second behind Waterworld, which pulled in $13.5 million on its second weekend.
The film would gross $77.1 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film three and a half out of four stars in his review, saying “Something to Talk About came along just in time for Julia Roberts, reminding us of what was so special about her in Pretty Woman, and what was not quite captured in the movies she made after that.”
Legacy
The film’s lasting legacy is its honest portrayal of a woman’s rage and her right to demand more.
It’s a powerful statement on the outdated expectations placed on women to maintain appearances, even at the expense of their own happiness and self-respect. Grace’s journey from a woman silenced by her circumstances to one who finds her voice, even if it shakes her entire world, resonates with audiences.
Something to Talk About is more than just a rom-com; it’s a poignant drama about personal freedom and the enduring bonds of family, all wrapped in a wonderfully entertaining package.
