A Woman of Independent Means
Bess Steed marries her childhood sweetheart in the early part of the 20th century and begins a life in the high society of Dallas, Texas. As time goes by, things do not work out as she expects. Her husband dies of influenza, and she finds that she must pick up and carry along with her life. She proves to be a strong, committed, and loving individual who attracts new loves into her life and finds that she can take good care of the old ones. Despite further tragedy in losing her oldest son, and a second marriage that is not all that she expects it to be she continues to survive as independently as she has discovered the courage to do so.
Insights
Plot Summary
The miniseries follows Bess Steed Garner, a spirited young woman from a modest background who inherits a fortune and navigates the complex social landscape of late 19th and early 20th century America. She faces societal expectations, personal betrayals, and the challenges of managing her wealth while searching for love and independence. The story spans several decades, showcasing her evolution as a businesswoman and a woman ahead of her time.
Critical Reception
A Woman of Independent Means was generally well-received for its ambitious scope and Sally Field's compelling performance. Critics often praised its detailed portrayal of the era and the strong female lead, though some found the pacing occasionally slow due to its miniseries format. It was considered a solid, if somewhat traditional, adaptation of the novel.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for Sally Field's commanding performance as Bess Garner.
- Commended for its detailed historical setting and depiction of the era.
- Some reviews noted a tendency towards melodrama and a lengthy runtime.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this miniseries is not readily available. However, its reception among general audiences would likely align with critical sentiment, focusing on Field's acting and the historical narrative.
Fun Fact
The miniseries is based on the bestselling 1978 novel of the same name by Elizabeth Forsythe Hailey.
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