Hell on Heels: The Battle of Mary Kay (2002)

You won't be disappointed!

Don't listen to the Hype. It's awful

It's hard to see any effort in the film. There's no comedy to speak of, no real drama and, worst of all.

All of these films share one commonality, that being a kind of emotional center that humanizes a cast of monsters.

This is based on a true story but you wouldn't think it from watching this well made but TV movie with a top-notch cast which includes Shirley Maclaine, Parker Posey and Shannen Doherty. The tone is satirical rather than matter-of-fact. Some scenes are very exaggerated and ultra camp, especially the beginning which might dissuade many from watching the rest. It feels like a musical most of the time and you half expect the cast members to jump into song. There are many snappy lines from Maclaine as the eponymous cosmetics queen heroine, while Posey is very good as her arch-rival, she doesn't get enough screen time to compete with Maclaine, which is a shame. Doherty gives a totally hyperactive performance which is totally at odds with her depiction in the media. In some ways t doesn't feel like a TV movie. The sets are extravagant at times and you can tell more money was thrown at this movie than most. An enjoyable diversion.

Spoilers withinOkay this movie is funny in that Shannen Doherty acts different than any other role she has played, she acts like a childstory lineThe film is about 2 comapnies who are battling it out for customers, Mary Kay (Shirley MacLaine), and one of her workers Lexi Wilcox (Shannen Doherty) are fighting it out with Jinger Heath (Parker Posey). who will win, you will have to see.I liked it because it is not like any other film i have scene.

This movie has to be one of the best that Shirley has been in. It seems the roles that she loves the most are the roles she does to perfection every time. This was outstanding....she could almost pass for Mary Kay if it called for a resemblance. This is one of Shirley's better roles. Now, let's see someone top that role!

Shirley MacLaine, a veteran visitor to Winnipeg, makes this otherwise typically made for TV movie almost the quality of a theatrical release. The woman of the 50's and 60's once so stereotyped is well echoed in Maclaine's portrayal Of Mary Kay. The cliché quotes are direct from Mark Kay's philosophy of life and business. The story also gives an accurate account of Mary Kay's almost Bi-polar approach in her successful business. She could instantly turn on the charm and caring attitude with her public no matter what. Shannon Doherty has found a vehicle for which her abilities are best suited - slightly comic/overdone and, well ditzy Barbie Doll. Parker Posey plays the role of the competition to Mary Kay Cosmetics with a great level of believability. This movie was filmed in the summer in Winnipeg when the temperatures were high as well the humidity yet this all star cast demonstrated their `give it all capabilities' and maintained their cool. This movie also showcases many of the fine locations available in Winnipeg and provides great example of why this city is used in so many American productions. Bravo to all involved!