Watch Used People

Used People is a 1992 romantic comedy-drama film that is based on the novel "Used People" written by Todd Graff. The film stars Shirley MacLaine, Kathy Bates, Jessica Tandy, Marcello Mastroianni, and Marcia Gay Harden in the lead roles. The movie is set in the 1960s and follows the lives of various Jewish families living in Queens, New York. This film is a journey of love, loss, and redemption that explores the fragility and preciousness of human relationships.

The story revolves around Pearl Berman (played by Shirley MacLaine), a mid-aged widow, who has been living alone since the death of her husband. She is set in her ways, stubborn, and emotionally guarded. Pearl, like other members of her family, mainly her mother, Doris (Jessica Tandy), and daughter, Bibby (Marcia Gay Harden), is obsessed with death and the rituals that follow it. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Joe Meledandri (Marcello Mastroianni), an Italian grocery owner who unknowingly turns Pearl's life upside down.

Joe is a passionate, gentle, and charismatic man living a life of his own with his sister, Norma (Sylvia Sydney), and brother-in-law, Ira (Bob Dishy). After losing his wife, Joe has found solace in his business and the women who come to shop there. Pearl starts visiting Joe's store to sell her hats and bumps into him one day, and their lives intertwine.

Along with Joe, three other men become a significant part of Pearl's life. There is her son-in-law, Danny (Neil Patrick Harris), who is stuck in a loveless marriage with Bibby and has feelings for Pearl. Then there is the local Jewish funeral director, Arthur (Marc Shaiman), who is also attracted to Pearl and is a symbol of the death-obsessed culture of the Berman family. Lastly, there is Max (Joseph Bologna), Pearl's ex-brother-in-law, who is still carrying a torch for her despite her husband passing away.

As Pearl navigates through her newfound relationships and the effect they have on her family, she has to decide what she wants from her life. Should she continue living a life filled with sorrow and death, or can she embrace the love that is being offered to her? Along with Pearl's journey, the film also explores the lives of the other members of the Berman family dealing with various issues.

Kathy Bates plays the role of Norma, Joe's sister, who is obese, handicapped, and living in denial of her situation. Jessica Tandy portrays Doris, Pearl's mother, who has constructed her life around death and ritual. Marcia Gay Harden, in her debut role, plays Bibby, Pearl's daughter, who is unhappy in her marriage but unable to leave it. The performances of the cast are outstanding and provide an authentic portrayal of the Jewish culture and its values.

The film's title, Used People, has a double meaning. On the one hand, it refers to the idea that the characters in the film are used up and discarded by society, much like the used items found in a thrift store. On the other hand, it refers to the idea that the characters are used to each other and their ways of life. The film's humor and nuance are derived from this duality, and the film never lets go of its comic edge, even in the darker moments.

The film's director, Beeban Kidron, captures the essence of the 60s era and the cultural clashes that were prevalent in those times. The film's soundtrack, composed by Rachel Portman, enhances the film's emotional depth and complements the story's nostalgic vibe. The film's central theme of love, loss, and redemption is beautifully portrayed, leaving the audience with a sense of hope and joy.

In conclusion, Used People is a heartwarming and uplifting film that explores the complexities of human relationships. With its stellar cast, engaging story, and beautiful soundtrack, the film offers the perfect blend of humor and tenderness. The film's portrayal of Jewish culture and its values is authentic, and the audience can relate to the characters' struggles and aspirations. The film is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good romantic comedy-drama that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.

Used People is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (3 episodes). The series first aired on October 31, 2018.