When Shirley Met Florence

What begins as a rather unexceptional film about an exceptional couple--the titular Shirley and Florence--gradually turns into an engaging story about a friendship built around different lifestyles spanning some 55 years. As a child in the 1930's, young émigré Shirley was struggling to assimilate to a new culture. Drawn to music, Shirley played the mandolin; Florence, who could sing, was drawn to Shirley. Although Shirley's sexual orientation was heterosexual, and Florence was a lesbian, the friendship flourished...even after Shirley married Florence's brother. Believe it or not, this is not nearly as soap-opera-ish as it sounds. Florence's descriptions of being "out" in the 1940's and the loss of her lover Sophie in 1977 are contrasted with Shirley's growing interest in Women's Studies, which led to her return to school at the age of 53. Although not a top-notch production, by any means, it is a heartfelt one. Recommended for larger collections. Aud: H, C, P. (R. Pitman)