The Last Word

⭐⭐⭐⭐

As a lifelong Shirley MacLaine fan, I have to admit I feel somewhat embarrassed that I only just watched her 2017 film The Last Word. Shirley MacLaine has been one of my favorite actresses for as long as I can remember — her talent, wit, and screen presence have consistently impressed me. Watching this movie for the first time felt like uncovering a long-overdue treasure. I deeply appreciate everything Shirley has contributed to film lovers like me over the years; she truly is unique, and I can’t imagine anyone else bringing such joy to the screen.

The Last Word introduces us to Harriet Lauler, a retired advertising powerhouse who’s always run her world with a stubborn sense of control. When she realizes her story might go untold (or worse, told poorly), she hires a young obituary writer, Anne Sherman, to set the record straight. The fun starts when Anne can’t find anyone with a kind word for Harriet, which pushes Harriet on a mission to create a legacy worth remembering. As the two women get tangled up in Harriet’s quest, they form a genuinely touching and often hilarious friendship that opens both of their hearts in unexpected ways.

Shirley MacLaine is an absolute force here. She delivers every caustic line with that signature wit we know and love, but what really got me was her vulnerability — those quiet moments when you glimpse all the regrets and hopes under Harriet’s prickly shell. Amanda Seyfried is the perfect match for MacLaine, adding a grounded, gentle energy as Anne. Watching them bounce off each other felt totally natural, and you can just tell from interviews and red-carpet photos (they arrived arm-in-arm at the premiere, which I loved!) that there was real admiration between them offscreen.

The chemistry wasn’t just acting; the cast and crew have talked about how collaborative and supportive it felt behind the scenes. Thomas Sadoski steps in as a charming radio DJ and brings warmth to Anne’s world, while newcomer AnnJewel Lee Dixon (as Brenda, the wise-beyond-her-years kid Harriet mentors) is a pure delight — her scenes with MacLaine sparkle with energy. There’s also some fantastic supporting work by actors like Anne Heche and Philip Baker Hall, who round out Harriet’s messy past with humor and heart.

Amanda Seyfried, Shirley MacLaine, and AnnJewel Lee Dixon

Director Mark Pellington and writer Stuart Ross Fink crafted more than a quirky comedy here. The film takes a real look at the urge we all feel to shape how we’re remembered, and it doesn’t shy away from Harriet’s flaws. Instead, it gently lets her (and us) see that legacy has as much to do with the lives we touch as with the trophies we collect. The cinematography pulls you right into Harriet’s world — her home starts out lonely and stark, but as she connects with Anne and Brenda, the visuals grow warmer and softer, almost like she’s letting a little light in at last.

Critics all agree that Shirley MacLaine is the standout of this film — her performance is the driving force, the wit, and the heart of the story. Even after all these years, she’s as sharp, funny, and moving as ever, and watching her tackle questions about mortality and meaning — while never losing her signature style — reminded me exactly why I’m such a fan.

At its core, this movie is about the power of connection and the possibility of redemption, no matter your age or history. It made me laugh and (I’ll admit) even choke up a bit. If you’re a Shirley MacLaine fan or just in the mood for something honest, funny, and deeply human, please give The Last Word a watch. It’s a small gem that proves some stars never stop shining.

Frank Gaimari is an author and film reviewer in Seattle. He lives with his husband and their two golden retrievers. You can learn more about his work at http://www.FrankGaimari.com.