Iron Jawed Angels - 2004

Frankly I’m one of those people that irritate others since I never get involved in the political climate and have no interest in what happens. I don’t complain about the ways of the government because I don’t participate in any factor of making the government. I’m a political slouch, letting other people get involved and fight my fights for me. I know it, now you do as well. I should probably have all my rights taken away from me since I obviously don’t exercise them anyway.

I’ve never given much thought to how my freedoms evolved. Sure, I am aware of the basics and certainly know about men and women fighting in wars to protect those freedoms, but as far as the grassroots of those freedoms, it simply never occurred to me to inquire just how it all evolved.

Certainly this movie, Iron Jawed Angels, wouldn’t fall under a category that I would normally watch since I’m not much on docu-drama type movies that center around politics. It was probably suggested to me by NetFlix because I had rented another movie along similar lines. I was completely surprised at just how interesting I found this movie and, after watching it, how humble I felt for ignoring all those that had fought for my freedom to have a voice in the making of government.

The movie is about the struggle of a small band of women, determined to get the right to vote. They, too, were ignored. They were beaten, jailed, and punished. Despite all that, they never broke their resolve.

The main characters, Alice Paul and Lucy Burns were a pretty fierce pair. Their joined forces created a formable front that even the NAWSA avoided. A couple of young women entering a war zone that was ruled by men, they held their ground. As their forces grew in strength, their opposition grew in determination.

Hillary Swank put a face and attitude on Alice Paul. She was petite but powerful, topping it off with a perky hat. It states that for the hunger strike while she was in prison, Swank ate very little food in real life so that she would appear wan and more true to life. Her sidekick, Burns, was played by Frances O'Connor, a fiery spitball that was a perfect match to Swank.

Anjelica Huston played the part of Carrie Chapman Catt, leader of the NAWSA. Although she gave Paul the green light to start the campaign in Washington, once Paul’s group gained so much backing she pulled her support. She did, however, once the cards were on the table, come forward and give the final ultimatum to President Wilson.

The movie, directed by Katja Von Garnier, was nominated for 15 awards, winning 3 of them. Writing was attributed to Jennifer Friedes and Sally Robinson. I think it was fairly factual in representation of actions taken at the time. They did inject a small love interest that was totally unnecessary except to let us know that, despite her chutzpah and determination, Alice Paul was also a woman.

As tense as some of the movie was, there were also several points of laughter and comedy. It was a great representation of just what can be accomplished when you put forth a joined effort.

Costuming looked genuine from other movies I've seen from the timeframe, as well as photos I personally own from the era. Overall I was completely pleased with the movie and more appreciative of the battle these women fought to give me the right to pull that little lever on election day.

Thanks,
Susi