The Incredible Shrinking Woman

The Incredible Shrinking Woman is a charming and whimsical feature film released in 1981 which plays on the themes of individuality, self-worth, and the effects of commercial consumption on the human being. Directed by Joel Schumacher, the film embraces the genres of science fiction, comedy and family drama. It stars the exuberantly funny Lily Tomlin, with Charles Grodin and Ned Beatty in supporting roles. The film presents itself as a comedic parody of the 1957 science fiction classic, The Incredible Shrinking Man, but with a distinctive and unique take all its own.

Lily Tomlin stars as Pat Kramer, a suburban housewife and mother who begins to shrink after being exposed to a combination of household chemicals. Tomlin portrays her character with remarkable humor and emotional depth, sensitively depicting Pat's struggle with her diminishing physical stature while battling the changing dynamics of her everyday life. Charles Grodin embodies the role of Pat's husband, Vance Kramer, a successful advertising executive, and their chemistry together creates a series of humorous, touching scenes.

Schumacher, a filmmaker known for his stylistic approach, manages to create an imaginative and visually appealing world where reality is infused with whimsy. The film starts as a simple tale about suburban life, complete with stereotypical roles and mundane, everyday problems. However, as the plot unfolds, and Pat starts to shrink, the reality skewers towards overtly comedic and fantastical scenarios, turning mundane household settings into grand, perilous landscapes, and placing Pat in situations that are both absurd and endearingly humorous.

The film also features a powerful performance by Ned Beatty as Dan Beame, the head of a multinational corporation and an advertising genius who's partly responsible for Pat's condition. His portrayal of a powerful individual who's stuck between his commercial interests and the unavoidably personal aspect of Pat's story adds another layer to the narrative.

A crucial aspect of The Incredible Shrinking Woman is its commentary on the consumer culture, represented through the suburban life of the Kramers. As Vance ascends on his career ladder in the exciting world of advertising, and their material possessions multiply, Pat becomes the inadvertent victim of the chemicals present in numerous consumer products. This metaphorical interpretation of the consequences of unrestrained consumerism adds a unique social layer to an otherwise fantastical narrative.

Aided by the superb cast and a skillfully designed set that potently portrays Pat's shrinking world, Schumacher effectively uses visual metaphors. One example is Pat's children playing with the classic building game "Tinker toys," with the plastic toy pieces slowly becoming construction beams in Pat's miniature world as she shrinks. These visual tools underscore how Pat's family life and relationships become increasingly challenging as she physically diminishes.

Additionally, in a unique twist, Tomlin also takes on the role of Judith Beasley, a dedicated consumer advocate determined to expose the corporate wrongdoings. By having Tomlin play both the victim, Pat, and her ultimate savior, Judith, the film subtly empowers womanhood and offers a commentary on self-reliance and female power.

Despite its light-hearted humor and imaginative storyline, The Incredible Shrinking Woman doesn't shy away from serious themes. It examines societal expectations, gender roles, and the dehumanizing effects of commercialism. However, it does all this without ever losing its original and creative identity. The narrative is as much about the strength of the human spirit, love, and family, as it is about the societal pressures placed on individuals.

Overall, The Incredible Shrinking Woman is more than just a comedic twist on a science fiction concept; it serves as a metaphor for the trials and tribulations of the modern world. Peppered with laughter, paradoxical situations, and the unmistakable charm of Lily Tomlin, it ultimately tells the tale of an ordinary woman trying to navigate an extraordinary situation, resulting in an experience that's as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.