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Waiting to Exhale: 30 Years Later
22 Dec
Summary
- The film pioneered stories centered on four African American women.
- Actresses recall deep camaraderie and friendship on set.
- The movie's groundbreaking portrayal of Black women resonates today.
The film "Waiting to Exhale," which celebrates its 30th anniversary on December 22, 2024, continues to hold a special place in cinematic history. Actress Angela Bassett, 67, reminisces about the deep camaraderie shared with co-stars Lela Rochon, Loretta Devine, and Whitney Houston during the filming of this landmark movie.
Adapted from Terry McMillan's 1992 novel, the film bravely centered the narratives of four distinct African American women and their romantic entanglements. Bassett emphasizes that "Waiting to Exhale" was a trailblazer, being one of the first films to feature a primary cast of four women, a rarity in an era dominated by male-led stories.
This significant portrayal of Black women's experiences has cemented the film's legacy. Lela Rochon, 61, shared that the authentic bond between the actresses was key to the film's success. Both actresses are gratified to witness the film's enduring impact, noting how it transcended its initial release to become a timeless classic.
