Bootleg Betty
Official Trailer For The Bette Midler Movie, “Stella”
By Mister D
Sept.5, 2024
Let’s step into the world of “Stella”, a 1990 American drama film that showcases the incomparable Bette Midler in a role that’s both heartwarming and unforgettable.
The Plot of “Stella”:
Stella Claire (Bette Midler): Stella is a force of nature—a feisty, independent woman working in a bar in Watertown, New York. She’s determined to give her daughter, Jenny, all the opportunities she never had. Stella’s flamboyant, proud, and fiercely devoted to Jenny. But her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Dr. Stephen Dallas (played by Stephen Collins), a suave young man from a completely different social background.
The Affair and Pregnancy: Despite their contrasting worlds, Stella and Stephen start an affair. Their passion leads to an unplanned pregnancy. Stephen proposes, but Stella rejects him—she’s not about to settle for half-hearted commitment. Instead, she embarks on the journey of single motherhood, determined to raise Jenny on her own terms.
Stalwart Friend and Broken Alcoholic: Stella’s stalwart friend, Ed Munn (played by John Goodman), is always there to lend a hand. He’s the local good-natured barfly who supports Stella through thick and thin. Together, they navigate the challenges of parenting, poverty, and life’s curveballs.
Father Reappears: When Jenny is four years old, Stephen reappears in their lives. He wants to know his daughter, and Stella reluctantly allows it. A bond forms between father and daughter, but Jenny is torn. She loves her free-spirited, devoted mother but also sees the allure of her father’s rich and well-connected world.
Jeopardizing Jenny’s Future Happiness: As Jenny grows up (played by Trini Alvarado), she faces a dilemma. Her loyalty to Stella clashes with her father’s background. Stella’s relationship with Ed Munn complicates matters. And when Jenny falls for a boy from her father’s world, the disparities between her parents’ backgrounds threaten her happiness.
Selfless Sacrifice: Stella’s love for Jenny knows no bounds. In the end, she makes a selfless sacrifice—one that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It’s a testament to the strength of a mother’s love and the complexities of family bonds.
Why “Stella” Stands Out:
Bette Midler’s Performance: Bette Midler brings Stella to life with humor, vulnerability, and raw emotion. Her portrayal captures the essence of a woman who defies convention and fights for her child.
Unconventional Choices: Unlike earlier film adaptations of Olive Higgins Prouty’s novel, this version diverges. Stella never marries Jenny’s father, emphasizing her independence and determination.
Supporting Cast: John Goodman, Stephen Collins, Marsha Mason, Eileen Brennan, and Ben Stiller add depth to the story. Each character contributes to the rich tapestry of Stella’s world.
So, if you’re in the mood for a heartfelt drama that celebrates resilience, love, and sacrifice, give Stella a watch. And remember, sometimes the most extraordinary stories come from the most ordinary lives. ?
Is there anything else you’d like to explore, whether it’s more about Bette Midler, other films, or perhaps a different topic entirely? ??
