The Group

The Group is a 1966 drama film directed by the acclaimed Sidney Lumet, best known for his work on films such as 12 Angry Men and The Verdict. The film features a talented ensemble cast that includes the likes of Candice Bergen, Joan Hackett, Elizabeth Hartman, and others. Based on Mary McCarthy's 1963 novel of the same name, the storyline set against the backdrop of post-Depression America resonates with the changing societal norms and expectations revolving around women.

The plot revolves around eight young women who graduate from an elite, all-female, northeastern university, unnamed but closely resembling Vassar College. These eight women are of diverse backgrounds and personalities united by the common thread of their academic institution. The movie follows their lives from the late 1930s through 1940s, tracing the post-graduation decade wherein their dreams and destinies take different trajectories. Each character struggles with her own set of challenges, whether in personal relationships, societal expectations, career prospects, or coming to terms with their own identities.

Candice Bergen stars as the wealthy Leslie "Lakey" Lacefield Eastlake, whose privileged upbringing often alienates her from her peers. Joan Hackett plays Dottie Lutz, a romantic and dreamy girl constantly looking for love in wrong places. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Hartman portrays Priss Hartshorn, a good-hearted but naive housewife confronting the harsh realities of life and marriage. The other main characters include Mary-Robinson Snow (Mary Ahna Capri), who grapples with the struggles of motherhood and marriage, and Kay Strong (Joanna Pettet), a fiercely independent woman courageous enough to break societal norms.

The Group perfectly captures the theme of female friendship's durability and complexities amidst societal expectations. It emphasizes women's shared experiences, camaraderie, and struggles that forge divergent paths over the course of a decade. The film has been keenly appreciated for its honest portrayal of women’s lives and their inner turmoil during a time when such depictions were still rare in mainstream cinema.

Director Sidney Lumet’s distinctive style is apparent in The Group. His attention to detail, meticulous characterization, and ability to capture the emotional density of particular life phases create a touching ensemble piece that is both relatable and poignant. Lumet masterfully maneuvers through the complexities of the narrative without compromising the authenticity of its time period.

The Group is enriched by its supporting performances, with Shirley Knight, Larry Hagman, and Richard Mulligan delivering noteworthy performances that chisel out intricate layers of the complex narrative. While exploring the characters' eccentricities and vulnerabilities, each actor adds depth and authenticity to their respective roles, making the narrative more engaging.

The screenplay by Sidney Buchman is remarkable for its adherence to Mary McCarthy's severe, unsparing vision. The film's depiction of women’s issues, from domestic abuse and infidelity to career ambitions and maternal guilt, was groundbreaking during the 1960s. Traditional societal roles associated with women are questioned, and the layers and depths of their emotional worlds are explored in-depth.

The Group’s cinematography by Boris Kaufman offers a significant contribution to the film's success. Kaufman, noted for his collaboration with Sidney Lumet, skillfully uses deep-focused, wide-angle shooting styles to intensify the narrative and emotional resonance of the film. Leonard Rosenman's dramatic and evocative score compliments the film and effectively underscores the emotional peaks and valleys that these ladies traverse in the course of their lives.

Visually, The Group is a time capsule that captures America's transformation during the late 1930s and early 1940s. The production design and costuming reflect the changes from the Great Depression's austerity to post-World War II prosperity.

In conclusion, The Group is a fascinating exploration of interpersonal relationships, personal growth, and societal norms that guided women's lives in a transforming era. The film imparts a broader message about women's empowerment and the intricacies of their lives beyond societal roles. It is, indeed, a timeless classic that has managed to resonate with audiences across different generations.