Waiting to Exhale (1995)

About Waiting to Exhale

'Waiting to Exhale' is a drama movie released in 1995. It's story revolves around four African-American women who share their stories and bond over their struggles with their love lives and careers. The movie subtly illustrates issues like male infidelity, broken families, and lifestyle pressures and how the four protagonists navigate these issues, looking to exhale from their life's pressures.

Making / Production

Directed by Forest Whitaker, the film is based on Terry McMillan's novel of the same name. It was a commercial success owing to its distinctive narrative.

Actors

• Whitney Houston as Savannah Jackson - She played the role of a successful television producer who holds onto her faith in love regardless of setbacks she encounters.
• Angela Bassett as Bernadine Harris - She portrayed a woman who tries to rebuild her life after her husband leaves her for another woman.
• Loretta Devine as Gloria Matthews - She played a resilient single mother looking for companionship after her son leaves for college.
• Leila Rochon as Robin Stokes - She embodied the character of a successful insurance executive struggling with her love life and making sense of her relationships.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film is based on the 1992 novel of the same name by Terry McMillan.
• 'Waiting to Exhale' is Forest Whitaker's directorial debut.
• All the four leading actresses were nominated for NAACP Image Awards for Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture.

Awards

The film got multiple award nominations and Angela Bassett won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture for her compelling performance.

Quotes

• “It's not even about him anymore, It's about you, how you feel about yourself. That's what you have to offer the world and the men in it when you go out there again.” - Gloria, Loretta Devine

Music and Soundtrack

• The soundtrack features a score composed by Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds and boasts hit songs like “Exhale (Shoop Shoop)” and “Sittin’ Up in My Room” by Brandy.