I think it's hard for most to remember that women have had the right to vote for less then 100 years. If nothing else this movie may help to renew interest in an issue that most like to conveniently forget. Hillary Swank and Frances O' Connor give wonderful performances as Alice Paul and Lucy Burns. And Anjelica Huston is subtle and formidable as Carrie Chapman Catt. And I loved that Inez Millholland was included-she was an important part of the movement and Julia Ormond is fabulous. This movie is beautifully shot and masterfully edited. It also has a modern soundtrack with great remixs by Sarah McLachlan, Mandalay and Lauren Hill. One criticism though-they didn't do a very good job of showing a true representation of the time and effort it took to achieve the 20th amendment. They made it seem like a few women staged a hunger strike and BAM...votes. So many women gave their health, lives and blood for the movement...they deserve more. There are ways to show time progression, they didn't choose to. More time was given over to the relationship between the suffragettes but it is very well done.
144 Reviews
August 26, 1920
Rogue-3219 February 2004
It's almost impossible to imagine that less than 100 years ago, our country's government did not allow its female citizens to vote, and what's sadder is, the men in charge at that time would NOT have amended the Constitution to include women if it hadn't been for relentlessly driven, fiercely intelligent and humblingly courageous people like Alice Paul, who was depicted in this show as being deeply conflicted about how far she knew she would have to go to push the envelope, but she did it anyway because it simply had to be done. In this day and age, all young girls (who take so much for granted) should be made to watch this film as a brutal lesson in history. Kudos to all concerned, particularly Hilary Swank who couldn't have been any more compelling as the heroic Alice Paul.
Hear them roar!
=G=17 February 2004
"Iron Jawed Angels" is an HBO historical biopic/docudrama which turns the lens on Swank who delivers a sterling performance as Quaker, suffragist, and women's right activist Alice Paul during her campaign to secure the 19th Constitutional amendment. Director Katja von Garnier, who gave us the wonderfully hip girl-power cult flick "Bandits", takes on the daunting task of delivering an entertaining film about a somewhat dry, esoteric subject and a relatively unknown character (as history goes) and succeeds. Sometimes whimsical, sometimes intense, spritzed with humor and drama, and packed with zingers and maxims, "Iron Jawed Angels" may be a chick flick but no man can deny nor should fail to appreciate the grace and beauty it delivers. (B+)
Enlightening & Overwhelmingly touching, Wonderful
JamiaLA17 April 2004
Even with the Hollywood spin, this movie depicts the true essence of the struggle for the 19th Amendment to the Constitution. What surprised me the most was how little I knew about the courageous devotion of these women and why our history books make little or no mention of their extraordinary struggle for us, for so many years. I loved this movie! Every cast member gave an outstanding performance, especially Hillary Swank (Alice Paul) and Frances O'Connor (Lucy Burns). Ms.O'Connor was enthralling! Every woman of voting age should see this movie about our unsung heroines. Then, older teenage daughters(& sons) nieces(& nephews),view it with supervision of some scenes. I wasn't initially drawn to this movie because of the title. I thought it was about WWII fighting airplanes. I'm so glad I tuned in for one of the best enlightening films of the decade. Bravo for HBO!
A story that needed to be told
wllatimer16 February 2004
Excellent movie with a few flaws ( music from a different time period, romance that wasn't necessary to the plot). It shows how the fight for the right for women to vote in the USA was a very tough one. People like to talk about "God given rights" but often rights have to won in a "war" by people that are willing to put everything on the line. These brave souls make life better for everybody. It seems obvious that women should have the same right to vote as men, but in the times represented by this film it was only obvious to a few. Hillary Swank and the others in the cast showed the gritty determination that it took to fight for voting rights. Rights aren't given to us. Let's not forget that!
Brilliant! Moving! Amazing!
mikeyrooroo2 April 2004
This movie was amazing! I have never known much of the Women's Suffrage, other than there was some protesting and women finally got to vote sometime early 1900s. This movie changed all that...
The first time I saw it, I only saw the last 30 minutes and was completely engaged. Hilary Swank and Frances O'Connor were fabulous portraying Alice Paul and Lucy Burns. They portrayed so much passion and determination. I immediately checked out when the next showing was so I could see the whole thing.
The first while was a little slow, but sets the stage for the climax. The use of new age music with 1910s fashions were a nice contrast, bringing the attitudes and mood of that time into a present day reality.
The script was so well written. Not only was it easy to follow, but very accurate as much as I can determine. After viewing the movie, I rushed out to my public library and checked out several books on the suffrage. So far what I've read is congruent with the movie.
It's so awe-inspiring to think what these brave women went through to give us a vote. I can't wait until this becomes available on DVD-I will definitely be buying it as soon as that happens.
The first time I saw it, I only saw the last 30 minutes and was completely engaged. Hilary Swank and Frances O'Connor were fabulous portraying Alice Paul and Lucy Burns. They portrayed so much passion and determination. I immediately checked out when the next showing was so I could see the whole thing.
The first while was a little slow, but sets the stage for the climax. The use of new age music with 1910s fashions were a nice contrast, bringing the attitudes and mood of that time into a present day reality.
The script was so well written. Not only was it easy to follow, but very accurate as much as I can determine. After viewing the movie, I rushed out to my public library and checked out several books on the suffrage. So far what I've read is congruent with the movie.
It's so awe-inspiring to think what these brave women went through to give us a vote. I can't wait until this becomes available on DVD-I will definitely be buying it as soon as that happens.
Girl power, 1920 style!
Cookie910217 November 2004
"Iron Jawed Angels" follows the true life stories of Alice Paul, Lucy Burns, and the other brave suffragettes who fought for a woman's right to be heard in the government. What a fabulous movie!! A topic that could have been boring was brought to life by director Katja von Garnier, as well as wonderful performances by Julia Ormond, Molly Parker, Vera Farmiga, and the amazing Hillary Swank, who brings chills with her powerful monologues. The soundtrack, despite not being from the 1910s or 1920s, is also a great listen.
An important piece of history brought to life that all women should see and appreciate.
An important piece of history brought to life that all women should see and appreciate.
Suffragettes brought to life
cherold30 October 2004
Very entertaining and affecting story of women's struggle for the vote. Rather than the period-piece drama one would get on a BBC show about the movement, this portrays very modern, very impassioned women. The director is determined to avoid any hint of stuffiness, and at times the gimmicky camera work seems there not to further the story but just to make sure this works for the MTV generation, but the result is a dynamic and entertaining movie. I've never heard much of anything about the women's suffrage movement and it is interesting to see how it played out and to learn a little about the movie's impassioned heroine Alice Paul and her struggle both with the patriarchy and with the more cautious suffragettes. She seems to have been a fascinating woman, and judging from her photographs, almost as cute as Hillary Swank.
Iron Jawed Angels
ericagui9 November 2018
I am writing this review for my history through film class. We are learning how to review history films. This movie was about the story of the women's suffrage movement. There was a huge struggle trying to get women to get the right to vote. Many people and men were against the act. One thing I liked about the movie was the overall acting of the women. I think thy did a good job portraying women from that era. A thing I noticed because of the time it was made was not a lot I think they did a good job. The only thing was the outfits but they were made to fit the time the overall story was made. One thing I didn't like was nothing. I thought the movie was good. I have watched other movies with 2 of the other other actors. I think both are good.
A fine, well-done film
jmiller-338 December 2004
This film does an extraordinary job of portraying an important part of American history with a modern flair. The score, albeit anachronistic, worked superbly with the film's content. Congratulations to HBO for producing such a wonderful timepiece. I'm anxiously awaiting the release of a soundtrack.
Incidentally, I'm a heterosexual male...this is certainly not a "lesbian-only" film, as some have argued. Perhaps it'd be better labeled an "intellectuals-only" film. Appreciating a film like this requires not only the ability to appreciate and respect history, but also the ability to recognize the importance of sharing history with our children. Sometimes it takes a group of committed activists (i.e., "fringe elements") to affect change -- sometimes the majority is wrong in suppressing the rights of others. This movie's message is entirely appropriate in today's context...
Incidentally, I'm a heterosexual male...this is certainly not a "lesbian-only" film, as some have argued. Perhaps it'd be better labeled an "intellectuals-only" film. Appreciating a film like this requires not only the ability to appreciate and respect history, but also the ability to recognize the importance of sharing history with our children. Sometimes it takes a group of committed activists (i.e., "fringe elements") to affect change -- sometimes the majority is wrong in suppressing the rights of others. This movie's message is entirely appropriate in today's context...
Can I just punch the warden?
jackfull9 November 2018
Iron Jawed Angels is a history film portraying the actions and events of Alice Paul, a women suffragist leader. Now I had to watch this in my U.S history through film class and I have to say that even though it is a crucial part of history, this film is no a crucial one to my favorites list. Let me explain.
The history and facts and events used in this film are astonishing. The women during the time were willing to give up so much for their cause. They devoted time and their resources to the movement, stood outside rain snow or shine, even starved themselves in jail and for what cause? Giving women the same rights as a man. The right to vote. They sacrificed all this so that the leaders of this country would not just be elected or could be men, but that they would be elected fairly and truly. Now for the film as a film.
The film felt very well done other than a few things. The music didn't seem to fit into the film at all, it was all early 2000's music that just doesn't go well with the time. Also I know they tried to make it seem like it was in the 20's, but the street shots look like they took old clothing and old cars on a modern street. It doesn't fit really well.
Overall, the few nitpicks make me give this a 7.
Good Woman suffrage Movie.
SpencerDoingReveiws9 November 2018
Is movie follow the the movement for the right for women to vote with man leader of the NAWSA of Susan B Anthony and NWP with Alice Paul as it follow the story and the thing that they did to be able to get the 19th amendment through their displays and the acts that were committed to them.
Mostly Successful Dramatization of Significant American Historical Movement.
jehaccess626 April 2008
Warning: Spoilers
I ordered the DVD because of Julia Ormond's role. She only appeared in about 5 minutes of the film. I was disappointed her appearance was so brief. She seems to become more lovely, the older she gets.
I must say that Hillary Swank delivered a very strong performance. She was well cast for this role. You could tell that women predominated in writing the film and a woman directed it as well.
I did not feel that the unsuccessful romance depicted here was a distraction. The Ben Weissman character was really getting to the lead character, Alice Paul. You could see her political will was starting to buckle under the force of her attraction to Ben and his motherless son. It was perhaps a little too graphic how Alice relieved her sexual tension in the bathtub. At any rate, Alice subdued her softer side under her iron will. Her own needs would always take second place to her political cause.
The scene where the psychiatrist was interviewing Alice in prison was perhaps the most powerful scene in the film. Here was a woman greatly weakened by starvation forced to contend with a powerful mind sent to undermine her efforts by declaring her insane. Every word was taken down to find a pretext to belittle her moral claim to suffrage. She was able to summon the words that compelled this man to reject the powerful inducements to destroy her. Hillary Swank delivered an enormously powerful performance here. She actually appeared near death in these scenes.
Reading some of the other comments here made me realize how distorted feminist doctrine has made history. Of course women are entitled to vote. What has been lost is the understanding of the progression of understanding in Western Civilization that has brought us to our present position.
In the beginning, might ruled everything. All privilege was obtained by being the most powerful man or being useful enough to him to be accorded certain limited considerations. Judaism and even more emphatically Christianity changed all that. The Golden Rule proclaimed that our neighbor was deserving of our regard. Women were accorded a place of respect and honor in Christian doctrine. This was truly revolutionary in historical terms.
The history of Western Civilization is the account of the continued expansion of the rights of man, or to be P.C., humanity. First the nobles in England forced the king to acknowledge their rights by signing the Magna Carta. Then the cities forced the king to recognize their rights under law. Then the merchant class gradually gained rights because they were needed to finance the king's armies and lifestyle. Then rights gradually extended to property owners, especially in the U.S. Blacks in the U.S. gained rights gradually as slavery was abolished first in the North and, after the Civil War, in the South. Women were not excluded from this process. The rights of women continually expanded over these centuries.
The basic point here is that, for the most point, rights were not gained by force. Moral arguments and peaceful protest that appealed to the Christian Conscience gained the day. Many of the women in this film were college graduates. This education gave them the understanding of the possibilities and potentials that their advancement could offer. These women were enormously privileged by the standards of the day.
The tide turned when details of the horrible injustices inflicted on these women inflamed the public opinion to the point where Sufferage became politically necessary. The same process was at work 60 years later when the same means gained Blacks better access to civil rights.
Time constraints greatly compressed this important work. It would have been better served by a mini-series that could have explored the topic in greater depth. Still, kudos to HBO for being willing to tackle this difficult subject. Perhaps a more appealing title could have enhanced the success of this film.
I must say that Hillary Swank delivered a very strong performance. She was well cast for this role. You could tell that women predominated in writing the film and a woman directed it as well.
I did not feel that the unsuccessful romance depicted here was a distraction. The Ben Weissman character was really getting to the lead character, Alice Paul. You could see her political will was starting to buckle under the force of her attraction to Ben and his motherless son. It was perhaps a little too graphic how Alice relieved her sexual tension in the bathtub. At any rate, Alice subdued her softer side under her iron will. Her own needs would always take second place to her political cause.
The scene where the psychiatrist was interviewing Alice in prison was perhaps the most powerful scene in the film. Here was a woman greatly weakened by starvation forced to contend with a powerful mind sent to undermine her efforts by declaring her insane. Every word was taken down to find a pretext to belittle her moral claim to suffrage. She was able to summon the words that compelled this man to reject the powerful inducements to destroy her. Hillary Swank delivered an enormously powerful performance here. She actually appeared near death in these scenes.
Reading some of the other comments here made me realize how distorted feminist doctrine has made history. Of course women are entitled to vote. What has been lost is the understanding of the progression of understanding in Western Civilization that has brought us to our present position.
In the beginning, might ruled everything. All privilege was obtained by being the most powerful man or being useful enough to him to be accorded certain limited considerations. Judaism and even more emphatically Christianity changed all that. The Golden Rule proclaimed that our neighbor was deserving of our regard. Women were accorded a place of respect and honor in Christian doctrine. This was truly revolutionary in historical terms.
The history of Western Civilization is the account of the continued expansion of the rights of man, or to be P.C., humanity. First the nobles in England forced the king to acknowledge their rights by signing the Magna Carta. Then the cities forced the king to recognize their rights under law. Then the merchant class gradually gained rights because they were needed to finance the king's armies and lifestyle. Then rights gradually extended to property owners, especially in the U.S. Blacks in the U.S. gained rights gradually as slavery was abolished first in the North and, after the Civil War, in the South. Women were not excluded from this process. The rights of women continually expanded over these centuries.
The basic point here is that, for the most point, rights were not gained by force. Moral arguments and peaceful protest that appealed to the Christian Conscience gained the day. Many of the women in this film were college graduates. This education gave them the understanding of the possibilities and potentials that their advancement could offer. These women were enormously privileged by the standards of the day.
The tide turned when details of the horrible injustices inflicted on these women inflamed the public opinion to the point where Sufferage became politically necessary. The same process was at work 60 years later when the same means gained Blacks better access to civil rights.
Time constraints greatly compressed this important work. It would have been better served by a mini-series that could have explored the topic in greater depth. Still, kudos to HBO for being willing to tackle this difficult subject. Perhaps a more appealing title could have enhanced the success of this film.
If you are looking for History, this is not it.
michaeldoerr29 August 2005
There may be history somewhere in this made for TV movie, but many of the facts that you can independently verify are false or misleading. It appears more to be just a story of how someone wishes to remember the struggle for women's suffrage.
It is particularly inaccurate with it's drumbeat against the Republicans of the time. The 19th amendment passed against fierce Democratic opposition. The vote in the House where the Republicans controlled 240 vs 192 was 304 for, 89 against. The vote in the Senate was 56(R-36, D-20) for, 25 against (R-8, D-17).
The states that ratified the amendment were virtually all Republican. Almost no Democratic states ratified it.
One of the reasons that Teddy Roosevelt was defeated by Wilson was that TR and his party had adopted Women's Suffrage as a plank. It is also why Republicans steadily took seats in both houses during the battle.
It is particularly inaccurate with it's drumbeat against the Republicans of the time. The 19th amendment passed against fierce Democratic opposition. The vote in the House where the Republicans controlled 240 vs 192 was 304 for, 89 against. The vote in the Senate was 56(R-36, D-20) for, 25 against (R-8, D-17).
The states that ratified the amendment were virtually all Republican. Almost no Democratic states ratified it.
One of the reasons that Teddy Roosevelt was defeated by Wilson was that TR and his party had adopted Women's Suffrage as a plank. It is also why Republicans steadily took seats in both houses during the battle.
Very Good....
kti_dayne15 March 2004
This is an extremely good and entertaining depiction of the suffragette movement at the turn of the last century. All of the front line actresses give strong and believable performances, especially Frances O'Connor as Lucy Burns, Molly Parker as Mrs. Leighton, and Brooke Smith as Mable Norman. Hillary Swank is in the lead and is excellent as Alice Paul. I thought the cinematography was superb and gave a real sense of the period. the script does an excellent job of touching on some other collateral issues and makes them interesting without distracting from the focal point of the movie, e.g., the "conflict" between the younger women in the movement and the established old guard, the attitudes of th esuffragettes towards the men in their lives, and the issues of black women as part of the movement.
My pet peeve about real life historical movies is accuracy in lieu of Hollywood license and this one stays as true to facts as you can ask...the scenes from the women's prison are more than compelling and visually forceful. As opposed to some other reviewers, I had no problem at all with the soundtrack and can't imagine why anyone would let it detract from such a well made, acted, and shot movie, especially when wse get the privilege of seeing women as something other than sirens or ornaments for the male characters.
Whether you are a history buff or not, and regardless of how you feel about the issue of women voting (cough), you'll enjoy this one...watch it on cable or pick it up when you get the chance, it will be a nice addition to your movie collection.
My pet peeve about real life historical movies is accuracy in lieu of Hollywood license and this one stays as true to facts as you can ask...the scenes from the women's prison are more than compelling and visually forceful. As opposed to some other reviewers, I had no problem at all with the soundtrack and can't imagine why anyone would let it detract from such a well made, acted, and shot movie, especially when wse get the privilege of seeing women as something other than sirens or ornaments for the male characters.
Whether you are a history buff or not, and regardless of how you feel about the issue of women voting (cough), you'll enjoy this one...watch it on cable or pick it up when you get the chance, it will be a nice addition to your movie collection.
Thank You!
Merendipity16 February 2004
While I've read many a comment saying how "boring" this HBO film was, I'm happy to say that I disagree. In this day and age, when communicating to young people just how important voting is, it's important that media like Iron Jawed Angels is made available. For those out there that are either too young to remember or have not had the privilege of learning these stories in history classes, knowing how hard some people fought and how much they struggled to achieve a right that many current citizens take for granted is tantamount. These stories are just as important as any other story in American history that details struggle, suffering, and a fight against obstacles to overcome.
Kudos, also, to Hillary Swank and company for all-around superb performances! Most importantly, thanks to those responsible for bringing this film to the public. Thank You!!!
Kudos, also, to Hillary Swank and company for all-around superb performances! Most importantly, thanks to those responsible for bringing this film to the public. Thank You!!!
Wonderfully Brilliant
kitkatters16 February 2004
I loved this movie. It shows what courageous women went through in order for all women to enjoy a right that was once thought to be only worthy of men. Discrimination and patronizing plagued their efforts, and all shows that not all women suffrage groups were on the same side when it came to voting. I think this movie is important because it shows the women of today how hard their ancestors fought to secure us a luxury that so few practice today and how important it is.
Really Good for What it Is
Tully-915 February 2004
I'm not normally into made-for-TV movies, but while I was visiting a friend tonight "Iron Jawed Angels" came on the television and within the first 10 minutes I was hooked. I kept meaning to go back to writing a paper for school, but I couldn't quite pull myself away from the movie.
"Iron Jawed Angels" doesn't exactly qualify as one of the best movies of all time, but for what it is I think those who made it did a good job. Before seeing it I'd heard it was very modernized (rock music in the background, etc.) and I expected it to be pretty lame in that regard. As it is, by using a modern filming style and adding in lots of jokes that no one would ever think women of that time period would use (though I'm sure they DID say some pretty crazy things when men were out of hearing range), the writers and director managed to make a forgotten part of history rather hip. If it had been released in theaters, I would have been horrified, but as a TV movie it was very entertaining and enlightening.
Strange as it is, my friend and I realized these women were some of the most important and influential people in American political/civil rights history, and yet I would bet that very few people alive today can even name them, let alone talk about how they went on hunger strike while in prison and gave up comfortable lives for a cause greater than themselves.
There is some hokey stuff in this movie (as there is in most "liberty or death" flicks), but that is far outweighed by the fact that it has the ability to teach young people today about women's suffrage without making them fall asleep. Be sure to watch it if you're a newcomer to civil rights. If nothing else, watch it because it's entertaining and will make you feel good.
"Iron Jawed Angels" doesn't exactly qualify as one of the best movies of all time, but for what it is I think those who made it did a good job. Before seeing it I'd heard it was very modernized (rock music in the background, etc.) and I expected it to be pretty lame in that regard. As it is, by using a modern filming style and adding in lots of jokes that no one would ever think women of that time period would use (though I'm sure they DID say some pretty crazy things when men were out of hearing range), the writers and director managed to make a forgotten part of history rather hip. If it had been released in theaters, I would have been horrified, but as a TV movie it was very entertaining and enlightening.
Strange as it is, my friend and I realized these women were some of the most important and influential people in American political/civil rights history, and yet I would bet that very few people alive today can even name them, let alone talk about how they went on hunger strike while in prison and gave up comfortable lives for a cause greater than themselves.
There is some hokey stuff in this movie (as there is in most "liberty or death" flicks), but that is far outweighed by the fact that it has the ability to teach young people today about women's suffrage without making them fall asleep. Be sure to watch it if you're a newcomer to civil rights. If nothing else, watch it because it's entertaining and will make you feel good.
Accessible History, Wonderful Cinematography
poultonse16 February 2004
I was incredibly impressed with this film and it's ability to make a part of history very few are aware of accessible to the masses. It's an incredibly moving portrayal of the sacrifices these women endured from the lifestyles they chose to lead in the name of their cause to the humiliation they suffered to bring about change. Change I'm sure most women today take for granted. This movie is a wonderfully unique blend of historical dramatization and modern cinematography that had me rivoted. It's amazing the moments in history we think we understand only to be shown the lives expended to truly achieve them. This reveals exactly those true stories.
I noted a review in this area from someone who commented on this film as a "chick flick," clearly showing an ignorance to the story and facts being presented and not realizing how insulting their comments are given the subject matter.
I noted a review in this area from someone who commented on this film as a "chick flick," clearly showing an ignorance to the story and facts being presented and not realizing how insulting their comments are given the subject matter.
Great movie...but....
occamsrazor196928 November 2013
I really enjoyed this movie. The cast was amazing, and the parts well acted. Amazing wardrobe, and the sets were beautifully done.
One major issue I have with this movie is the soundtrack. I've always loved how the music sets the tone of a film. This movie fails on an epic scale here. There's R&B for crying out loud!! In a movie set in the beginning of the 20th century??? And a historical drama at that?
Maybe it's just me....
And Hillary Swank is her usual phenomenal self.
Other than the unusual music choices, I'd highly recommend this movie to anyone who loves historical dramas.
One major issue I have with this movie is the soundtrack. I've always loved how the music sets the tone of a film. This movie fails on an epic scale here. There's R&B for crying out loud!! In a movie set in the beginning of the 20th century??? And a historical drama at that?
Maybe it's just me....
And Hillary Swank is her usual phenomenal self.
Other than the unusual music choices, I'd highly recommend this movie to anyone who loves historical dramas.
Loved Iron Jawed Angels
hdhomesl9 January 2005
I would recommend this movie to everyone to see. As a future history teacher I plan on incorporating this movie into my classes. I have studied the women's movement, and I have found the movie accurate and well told. It clearly depicts the hardships that women went through. It is a good reminder that their work isn't done. It is a good reminder that we must not rest on our laurels, but continue to stand up and fight for what we believe in. This movie had me going through so many different emotions, which is a rare quality of today's movies.
As for the soundtrack, I thought it was appropriate for the movie. It helped bring even more emotion to the already eye-opening movie. It was a good choice of music.
Congrats to all the actors and director for making such a wonderful movie. I wish it was longer, but they did an excellent job of showing the important events in such a constrained amount of time. We need more movies like this one!!
As for the soundtrack, I thought it was appropriate for the movie. It helped bring even more emotion to the already eye-opening movie. It was a good choice of music.
Congrats to all the actors and director for making such a wonderful movie. I wish it was longer, but they did an excellent job of showing the important events in such a constrained amount of time. We need more movies like this one!!
Just another movie bout some stuffs
bambamcohee9 November 2018
I watched this movie because my teacher put it in the DVD player. Also, to get some info on what happened in the early 1900s. The filmmaker is telling the story of women fighting for rights. How they behaved, what they wanted. Even strategies they had to get something to happen. For example throwing a banner down in front of the President or hunger strikes. How well the the props were made pretty much gives away the time period. The clothes, phones, cars and even the prison windows are well made. The movie also has a pretty clear picture. I liked how the movie showed how persistent the women were. How it showed that even when everyone is against them they still pushed forward. I also liked how it showed the women sticking together. I didn't like how it was boring and slow at some points. Overall Iron Jawed Angels is a good movie. I don´t care if I see more movies by the same people. It wasn´t a OH MY GOD THAT WAS AN AMAZING MOVIE it was just... good.
Fabulous performances shed light on lesser known activists.
webster-822 February 2004
Strong, complex performances throughout, paint a startling picture of the extraordinary lengths to which women had to go to get the right to vote in the U.S. It simultaneously offered a glimpse into the politics of power, and the degree of commitment required to affect change in society. A haunting reminder of how much we take for granted in the freedom to choose that we, as women, now enjoy.
Weak direction saved by cast and crew
NancingPony16 February 2004
The acting and cinematography in this film were excellent. It could have been a much better film had there been a more competent director. There were several gratuitous parts, among them nudity and graphic force-feeding. I think that the director was taking herself too seriously and trying to make a statement with this film. Instead she ended up making a chick flick.
Despite the shortcomings of the director, there were some excellent shots, great acting, and a superb soundtrack. Everyone should see this at least once.
Despite the shortcomings of the director, there were some excellent shots, great acting, and a superb soundtrack. Everyone should see this at least once.
The music ruined everything
Davalon-Davalon14 September 2019
Warning: Spoilers
I will be honest and say I was unable to finish this film. The decision was made to use modern music for a story set in the early 20th century. Despite seeing wonderful actresses in period costumes, and despite some snappy dialogue, the modern music (actual songs that people sang, in the background) completely negated what was happening on screen. I could not enjoy what might have actually been very enjoyable.
I just can't imagine why the producers thought a modern soundtrack would be the right way to go. I think it was counterproductive and distracting.
Also, I am wondering why the title wasn't IRON-JAWED ANGELS. It's a glaring grammatical error.
I just can't imagine why the producers thought a modern soundtrack would be the right way to go. I think it was counterproductive and distracting.
Also, I am wondering why the title wasn't IRON-JAWED ANGELS. It's a glaring grammatical error.
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