Despite compromises, a result of interference in director Demme's work, this fictional look at a Rosie the Riveter kind of woman displays a nice feminist perspective on WWII and terrific performances from Goldie Hawn and especially Christine Lahti.
Swing Shift (1984)
Tomatometer
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Reviews Counted:6
Fresh:6
Rotten:0
Average Rating:7.2/10
Synopsis: It's World War II, and Kay's husband, Jack (Ed Harris), has just joined the military. Kay (Goldie Hawn), like so many women of the period, decides to go to work to support the war effort. She finds... It's World War II, and Kay's husband, Jack (Ed Harris), has just joined the military. Kay (Goldie Hawn), like so many women of the period, decides to go to work to support the war effort. She finds a job at an airplane munitions plant, where she meets Lucky (Kurt Russell), a trumpet-playing hunk who is unable to serve in the war because of health problems. The two embark upon a romance after a lengthy courtship, which lasts a number of years. But when Jack returns home injured, he doesn't appreciate the news that his wife has been enjoying herself with another man. Jonathan Demme's smooth directorial hand is revealed by the unsentimental generosity with which he handles the supporting characters. Look in particular for Christine Lahti's standout performance as Kay's factory buddy, Hazel--a performance that notched her an Oscar nomination. SWING SHIFT is the rare World War II movie that focuses on the home front; it is particularly sensitive to the period's music, place, and mood. [More]
Starring: Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, Christine Lahti, Ed Harris
Starring: Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, Christine Lahti, Ed Harris
Director: Jonathan Demme
Director: Jonathan Demme
Reviews for Swing Shift
Sofia Coppola and Wes Anderson could learn a few things watching this. Or maybe they already have.
Effectively conveys how World War II changed men, women work and family
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