When Miss Jewel Mae “Cookie” Orcutt—played, in a rare screen appearance, by Patricia Neal—ends her tired, widowed life, it causes a stir in Holly Springs, Mississippi. The reactions and recourses of her eccentric family and friends unfold slowly—much like the pace of the small Southern town—which makes for a delightful film, thanks to the strength of the cast.

“The sweet assurance and guerrilla wit of Robert Altman’s vintage ensemble films makes a serenely captivating return.” – Janet Maslin, New York Times