Tillie Olsen: “I Stand Here Ironing” 2005
Distributed by Films Media Group, PO Box 2053, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-2053; 800-257-5126
Produced by Bruce Schwartz and Thomson Learning
Directed by Bruce Schwartz
DVD, color, 33 min.
Sr. High - Adult
Literature, Women's Studies
Date Entered: 01/12/2006
Reviewed by Rue Herbert, Head, Library Media Resources, University of South Florida, TampaThis dramatization based on the Tillie Olsen short story is part of a two-part series titled Tillie Olsen: Ironing Out Life. The second part of the series is an interview with the author. Given the complex nature of this work, the program provides an excellent illustration of the themes addressed.
Tillie Olsen is a celebrated 20th century American writer. Although her writing at times reflects an emotional coldness that is attributed to the author’s life experiences, Tillie Olsen’s life was full of passions. A non-conformist mother of four daughters, the development of her writing career was slowed by her lengthy role as a working, at times single, mother. She was a public schools advocate, women’s rights activist, and proved to be politically daring in her support of labor unions and occasional membership in the Communist party.
Olsen’s life is reflective of someone holding tightly to the importance of community, solidarity, and humanity. Her writings reflect the role of women in our society, the stress brought about by poverty and limited options, and the complexity of the mother-child relationship.
Tille Olsen: “I Stand Here Ironing” is an excellent dramatization, and one that would benefit the study and deeper understanding of the work as read. The technical aspects are high quality, and the performances are well done.
The program is recommended for educational use at the high school and college level. It will provide first-rate supplementary material on the study of the written work.