3 Women

3 Women is a 1977 American drama film written and directed by Robert Altman. The movie is a surreal and poignant character study of three women and their struggles with identity, relationships, and the complexities of human connection. The film revolves around Milly (Shelley Duvall), a shy and awkward 17-year-old runaway who has become the roommate of Pinky (Sissy Spacek), a naive and eccentric 25-year-old woman who is suffering from amnesia. The two women meet Milly through a local hospital where she works as a nurse. The hospital also employed Pinky in a clerical capacity prior to her memory loss, and Pinky finds a connection to her past through her interactions with the hospital's staff. The two begin their roommate relationship and form a bond. However, another figure enters their lives: O Lily, played by Janice Rule. O Lily is a mysterious and beautiful woman with a dark past and a penchant for the unconventional. Pinky and O Lily soon discover that they share an uncanny resemblance, both physically and personally. The enigmatic nature of O Lily and her presence in their lives adds to the intrigue and complexity of their relationships. Throughout the film, Altman employs long, unedited takes to create a sense of realism and freedom. The characters are allowed to meander and interact organically, creating a sense of spontaneity and intimacy. The performances of the three lead actresses are nuanced and captivating, imbuing their characters with depth and multidimensionality. As Pinky and Milly's relationship evolves, it becomes increasingly complex and multifaceted. Pinky's struggles with her past and her desire for connection lead her to form a bond with Milly, who is both fascinated and intimidated by Pinky's enigmatic presence. Meanwhile, the arrival of O Lily adds a new level of tension and uncertainty to their relationship. Altman's exploration of feminine identity and relationships is thought-provoking and insightful. The three women navigate their complex feelings and desires, often speaking in a cryptic and symbolic language that adds to the film's dreamlike quality. Despite their differences, Pinky, Milly, and O Lily find solace and support in each other, creating an unlikely and beautiful family unit. One of the film's central themes is the idea of identity and the fluidity of self. Each of the three women is trying to come to terms with who they are and where they fit in the world. Pinky's memories come back to her in fits and starts, revealing a fractured and troubled past. Milly struggles to assert her individuality and find her place in the world, often feeling like an outsider in her new surroundings. Meanwhile, O Lily remains an enigma, her past and motivations shrouded in mystery. Through the story of these three women, Altman offers a nuanced and compassionate exploration of the human experience. The film is a poignant reminder of the complexities and fragilities of human relationships, as well as the resilience and strength of women in the face of adversity. 3 Women is a thought-provoking and visually breathtaking film that offers a unique and captivating perspective on the human experience. With its rich characters, complex themes, and dreamlike atmosphere, the film is a must-see for fans of drama and character-driven cinema. Altman's direction is masterful, and the performances of the lead actresses are unforgettable, making this a film that will linger in the viewer's mind long after the credits roll.