Is Eleanor Roosevelt Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2000)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of Eleanor Roosevelt (2000), audiences are invited back into the world of Documentary, History. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "Eleanor Roosevelt struggled to overcome an unhappy childhood, betrayal in her marriage, a controlling mother-in-law, and gripping depressions — all the while staying true to her passion for social justice. This biography includes rare home movies, contemporary footage, and reflections from Eleanor’s closest surviving relatives, as well as biographers Blanche Wiesen Cook, Allida Black, and Geoffrey C. Ward, bringing to vibrant life one of the century’s most influential women."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Alfre Woodard shines in a role that demands both nuance and gravitas, elevating the material significantly. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Documentary. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Eleanor Roosevelt worth your time? If you appreciate Documentary, History films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 2000, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Eleanor Roosevelt is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 150 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.