‘Waiting to Exhale’ Resonates 30 Years Later: NPR
The film “Waiting to Exhale,” released in 1995, remains influential three decades later. Directed by Forest Whitaker, it featured a star-studded cast, including Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, Lela Rochon, and Loretta Devine. The movie chronicles the lives of four successful Black women navigating love, friendship, and societal expectations.
“Waiting to Exhale”: A Cultural Milestone
Upon its release, the film was met with mixed reviews from predominantly white critics, yet it resonated with audiences, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of that year. The Los Angeles Times referred to it as a “social phenomenon,” and it garnered several NAACP Image Awards, recognizing its outstanding contributions to film.
Transition from Novel to Film
“Waiting to Exhale” is adapted from Terry McMillan’s bestselling novel, which portrays the lives of four middle-class Black women. The film’s characters reflect significant social changes, including increased educational attainment and changing dynamics in romance among Black women from the 1970s to the 1990s.
- Savannah (played by Whitney Houston): An ambitious woman reluctant to settle for less in love.
- Bernadine (played by Angela Bassett): A fierce mother navigating divorce and betrayal.
- Gloria (played by Loretta Devine): A hair salon owner confronting loneliness as her son prepares to leave home.
- Robin (played by Lela Rochon): A corporate underwriter navigating messy dating scenarios.
Critical Reception and Impact
Despite some criticisms—such as biases in its portrayal of women and homophobia—the film’s themes of empowerment and sisterhood remain relevant. Cultural scholars have noted the film’s role in shaping narratives around Black women. It provided representation and offered a contrast to typical depictions seen in mainstream media.
Jacqueline Bobo, a scholar, referenced “Waiting to Exhale” in her research on how Black women engage with media. The film’s influence can also be seen in the works of contemporary Black female authors, for whom it serves as a significant touchstone.
Iconic Scenes and Memorable Quotes
One of the film’s standout moments is Bernadine’s dramatic confrontation with her cheating husband, where she symbolically reclaiming her power by burning his possessions. This scene exemplifies the mix of humor and poignancy that defines the film.
Savannah’s journey reflects the struggles of many women seeking love and acceptance. A poignant quote from her character encapsulates the film’s message: “There’s a big difference between being thirsty and being dehydrated.” This speaks to broader themes of self-worth and representation.
Legacy of “Waiting to Exhale”
Three decades after its release, “Waiting to Exhale” continues to be celebrated for its exploration of Black women’s lives. It set a precedent for future productions like “Sex and the City.” Both works examine women’s experiences in urban settings but do so through different cultural lenses.
Today, “Waiting to Exhale” stands not only as a commercial success but also as a significant cultural artifact. It recognized and validated the complexities of Black womanhood with sincerity and artistry.
