Different Generations

When the book first came out, I was a little bit older than the sisters, but chiefly identified with the younger characters, specifically Rose.

When I watched it today, I was thinking how great it was that the seniors were presented as three-dimensional characters instead of demented comedy fodder or senile stereotypes. They were shrewd, cynical, sexual. Some good natured, some b!itches. Hey, just like in real life!

One of my new favorite scenes is when the old women tell Maggie they're all aware she showed up to fleece her grandmother and Maggie's shocked anyone could see her moves through their trifocals. (Yeah, I'm starting to get a whiff of that patronizing sh!t from young people and it's infuriating.)

I think it's a sign of a good story when it holds up long enough for your perspective to change and the characters are still rich and believable.

One thing I did NOT like is Maggie highjacking the middle of her sister's wedding ceremony to read the poem. She couldn't wait for the reception to grab the spotlight? It makes me think Rose was right not to trust her with the shoes and, much worse, that there would come a time when Maggie feels low and would try to flirt with Simon to give herself a little self esteem boost.

Ha, another good sign: imagining the characters in the future. Sequel!