What Is She-Devil About?
The premise of She-Devil in 295 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the leafy suburbs just outside New York City, life hums along in a rhythm of school runs, family dinners, and the quiet ambition of a housewife who keeps the household afloat despite her own self‑doubt. Ruth Patchett is devoted, resourceful, and hilariously clumsy, forever juggling the demands of two children, a demanding husband, and the everyday minutiae that never seem to appreciate her efforts. The world she inhabits feels both familiar and slightly askew, a place where the ordinary is tinged with a sharp, mischievous edge.
Bob, Ruth’s husband, works as an accountant and spends his evenings nursing a growing sense of restless ambition. When a chance encounter at an upscale museum event introduces him to the glamorous romance novelist Mary Fisher, a magnetic figure whose very presence seems to rewrite the rules of charm and success, the delicate balance of Ruth’s life begins to wobble. The film establishes a tone that blends witty sarcasm with heartfelt longing, turning what could be a simple domestic drama into a comedy of errors where jealousy and desire flare like neon signs on a dark street.
The story thrives on the contrast between Ruth’s unassuming suburban world and the glittering allure of the literary elite. It hints at a simmering rivalry that promises to upend the comfortable routines of both families, while also suggesting that Ruth possesses a spark of ingenuity beneath her modest exterior. As the characters navigate social gatherings, fleeting glances, and whispered conversations, a subtle battle of wits forms, promising both humor and a sharp commentary on personal validation. The stage is set for a whirlwind of clever schemes and unexpected alliances, all delivered with a wickedly funny tone that keeps the audience eager to see how ordinary lives can be turned spectacularly upside‑down.
What Happens in She-Devil?
The complete story of She-Devil, from the first scene to the last, in 579 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 8 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
Ruth Patchett, portrayed by Roseanne Barr, finds herself navigating the chaotic demands of family life in the suburbs just outside New York City. Living with her husband Bob (Ed Begley Jr.) and their two children, Nicolette and Andy (Elisabeth Peters and Bryan Larkin), Ruth is a devoted homemaker. However, her earnest efforts often go unnoticed, overshadowed by her unfortunate clumsiness, lack of grace, and struggles with her self-image.
The status quo of her life is shattered during a fateful evening at a social gathering hosted at the illustrious Guggenheim Museum, a chance for Bob to “network” in his accounting profession. In a clumsy incident, Ruth spills wine all over the glamorous romance novelist Mary Fisher, played by the brilliant Meryl Streep. This faux pas only serves to increase Bob’s embarrassment. As the scene unfolds, Bob quickly offers to drive Mary home, leaving Ruth to walk back alone. This detour introduces a dangerous twist in their lives.
Upon arriving at Mary’s opulent mansion, Bob’s intentions become questionable when he spends the night there, leading to Ruth’s growing suspicion that he is having an affair. When he eventually returns home, the tension escalates over a chaotic family dinner marked by mishaps and revelations. In a heated exchange, Bob’s words cut deep when he decides to reveal that he married Ruth merely out of obligation. Disheartened and furious, Ruth vows to dismantle everything Bob holds dear, beginning her devious plan with their house.
As her revenge unfolds in spectacular and fiery fashion, Ruth adopts the name Vesta Rose and enters the employ of the Golden Twilight Nursing Home, under the management of Mrs. Trumper (Mary Louise Wilson) and Nurse Hooper (Linda Hunt). There, Ruth discovers a disturbing secret: the residents are being heavily medicated. Determined to bring joy back to their lives, she switches the sedatives with vitamins. This action sparks a wave of newfound energy among the nursing home’s elderly residents, leading to whimsical soccer games played in their pajamas.
Meanwhile, life with Bob and Mary continues to spiral out of control. Ruth’s mission carries her all the way to New York City, where she opens an employment agency aimed at empowering women like herself to reclaim their independence. In the hustle and bustle of their new venture, Ruth cleverly sets up Bob’s new mistress Olivia (Maria Pitillo) with a job right in Bob’s office, further complicating Bob’s extramarital entanglements.
In the background, Mary’s career begins to falter as her new book flops, increasing the tragic comedy of errors between these intertwined lives. As tensions peak, Ruth’s clever plotting results in Bob facing financial ruin and legal consequences, while Mary confronts the havoc reeked by her choices.
With satisfying symmetry, Ruth uncovers incriminating evidence that leads to Bob’s downfall. A judge of impartiality sentences him to a lengthy prison term, marking a victorious climax for Ruth’s quest for revenge. The story finally comes full circle when Ruth visits Bob in prison, giving him a taste of the sweet vengeance she has savored.
As the narrative draws to a close, Ruth emerges transformed, a testament to resilience and empowerment. The final scene sees her confidently walking the streets of the World Trade Center area, flanked by the women in her agency who proudly wear their Vesta Rose pins. With a radiant smile, Ruth breaks the fourth wall, implying her triumph over adversity is not just about Bob or Mary, but a statement about reclaiming one’s life, charm, and agency against all odds.
She-Devil Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
15 key events in the order they happen, from “Ruth's Family Life” to “Ruth's Flourishing Life”. 14 events name a place, across 10 locations.
- 1
Ruth's Family Life
Ruth Patchett lives in the suburbs of New York City with her husband Bob and their two children, Nicolette and Andy. Although she is a loving homemaker, her clumsiness and appearance often overshadow her efforts in the eyes of her family.
Where:Suburbs of New York City
- 2
The Guggenheim Party
Bob takes Ruth to a networking party at the Guggenheim Museum, hoping to impress. During the event, Ruth accidentally spills wine on famous romance novelist Mary Fisher, much to Bob’s embarrassment.
Where:Guggenheim Museum, New York City
- 3
Bob's Night with Mary
After the party, Bob offers Mary a ride home, which turns into an unexpected overnight stay. The two become intimate, leading Bob to land Mary's account the next day.
Where:Mary's home, Palace on the Sea
- 4
Ruth's Growing Suspicion
Returning home, Bob announces his new business deal with Mary, raising Ruth's suspicions about his fidelity. In a bid to please him, she attempts to improve her appearance and domestic skills.
Where:Patchett Home
- 5
Dinner Disaster
The family dinner with Bob's parents goes horribly wrong, resulting in burnt food and the shocking discovery of a missing gerbil in a soup. Bob's harsh words spark an explosive argument between him and Ruth.
Where:Patchett Home
- 6
Bob Moves Out
Following the disastrous dinner, Bob decides to leave Ruth permanently. He cruelly insults her, stating that she is his only liability, which fuels Ruth's anger and desire for revenge.
Where:Patchett Home
- 7
Ruth's Vengeful Fire
In a fit of rage, Ruth begins to systematically destroy Bob's assets, starting with their home. She ignites a massive fire, leaving her with nothing but a sense of satisfaction over her first victory.
Where:Patchett Home
- 8
Starting a New Life
Adopting the alias Vesta Rose, Ruth moves into a nursing home where she quickly realizes the residents are heavily sedated. Determined to help, she switches their medication, effectively waking them up.
Where:Golden Twilight Nursing Home
- 9
Ruth's New Friendship
Ruth befriends Mrs. Fisher, Mary's estranged mother, and facilitates her visit to Mary. Ruth's actions lead to chaos at Mary's home as she struggles to manage Ruth's children.
Where:Mary's home, Palace on the Sea
- 10
Planning Revenge
Ruth and her new friend Hooper hatch a plan to sabotage Bob's career by using financial information they gather. They devise strategies to expose Bob’s embezzlement scheme.
Where:New York City
Show the other 5 events of She-Devil Hide the last 5 events
- 11
The Fall of Bob
Ruth anonymously reports Bob's financial crimes, leading to his arrest during a dinner party thrown by Mary. The chaotic events dramatically shift the power dynamics between the characters.
Where:Mary's home
- 12
Courtroom Showdown
At Bob's trial, Ruth ensures that he faces a tough judge who does not sympathize with him during the trial. The verdict finds Bob guilty of embezzlement, leading to his imprisonment.
Where:Courtroom
- 13
Life After Bob
A year later, Ruth visits Bob in prison with the kids, where he asks to cook for her upon his release. Meanwhile, Ruth has rebuilt her life, creating a successful agency for women.
Where:Prison
- 14
Mary's New Success
Mary's new book, documenting her tumultuous life, becomes a major success. She seems to bounce back, showcasing her resilience amid ongoing changes in her life.
- 15
Ruth's Flourishing Life
Ruth walks through her new neighborhood, proudly wearing her agency's pin and surrounded by women she has empowered. With a newfound confidence, she reflects on the sweet revenge she has enacted.
Where:World Trade Center Neighborhood
Who Are the Main Characters in She-Devil?
3 characters, among them Ruth Patchett, Mary Fisher and Bob Patchett: who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
- RP
Ruth Patchett
Played by Roseanne
Ruth Patchett is a loving but clumsy homemaker who feels unnoticed and undervalued in her family. After discovering her husband's affair, she transforms into a determined and vengeful woman, using her cunning to dismantle her enemies' lives. Her evolution from a meek housewife to an empowered figure highlights the complexities of motherhood and self-identity.
- 👩👧👦 Mother
- 😠 Vengeful
- 🌱 Empowered
-
Mary Fisher
Played by Meryl Streep
Mary Fisher is an attractive and successful romance novelist whose life becomes intertwined with Ruth's following her affair with Bob. Initially portrayed as confident, her character reveals deeper insecurities and struggles with motherhood. Mary's journey showcases the pressure of societal expectations on women, revealing the challenges beneath a glamorous exterior.
- 📚 Author
- 😥 Insecure
- 🎭 Competitor
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Bob Patchett
Played by Ed Begley Jr.
Bob Patchett is Ruth's husband, a seemingly successful accountant who prioritizes his career and extramarital interests over his family. His dismissive attitude sets the stage for Ruth's transformation, ultimately leading to his downfall. Bob embodies the archetype of a self-centered man trapped by his own decisions, showcasing the complexities within marital dynamics.
- 👨💼 Husband
- 😒 Unfaithful
- 🚪 Dismissive
Where and When Is She-Devil Set?
She-Devil is set in New York City, Guggenheim Museum and Golden Twilight Nursing Home. Here is why the place matters to the story.
When
The movie portrays contemporary life, dealing with issues relevant to the late 20th century, such as infidelity, the challenges of motherhood, and the quest for personal identity. The character's dynamics reveal societal norms of the time, particularly regarding gender roles and expectations within relationships.
Where
New York City, Guggenheim Museum, Golden Twilight Nursing Home
The movie takes place in various locations including the bustling suburbs of New York City, where Ruth Patchett lives with her family. The Guggenheim Museum serves as a backdrop for the initial conflict between Ruth and Mary Fisher, setting the tone for the ensuing rivalry. Additionally, the Golden Twilight Nursing Home illustrates a stark contrast to Ruth's suburban life, highlighting the experiences of the elderly and the hidden stories within.
- 🌆 City
- 🎨 Museum
- 🏥 Nursing Home
What Are the Themes of She-Devil?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Revenge, Identity and Infidelity.
-
01
Revenge
Revenge is a central theme in 'She-Devil,' as Ruth transforms from a scorned homemaker into a calculating woman bent on dismantling her husband's life. Her actions demonstrate the extremes one may go to reclaim control and power. Ruth's journey illustrates that vengeance can be both liberating and destructive, creating cycles of conflict.
-
02
Identity
The exploration of identity is significant, as Ruth creates a new persona, Vesta Rose, to escape her mundane life and reclaim her self-worth. The film challenges stereotypes about women and underscores the importance of self-discovery and empowerment, especially after societal rejections. This new identity allows Ruth to take charge of her life and build her own narrative.
-
03
Infidelity
Infidelity acts as a catalyst, triggering a series of events that unravel Ruth's family life. Bob's affair with Mary impacts both women profoundly, pushing them into direct competition. This theme examines the fragility of trust and commitment within relationships, revealing how easily they can be shattered.
What Kind of Film Is She-Devil?
Light in tone, with steady pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Light
- Pacing
- Steady
- Story
- Straightforward
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Happy
A cheeky and empowering revenge comedy that follows a scorned housewife's satisfyingly calculated takedown of her husband and his glamorous mistress, delivered with a satirical and ultimately triumphant spirit.
- comedic
- satisfying
- empowering
- revenge-driven
- quirky
- satirical
- infidelity
- revenge
- female empowerment
- dysfunctional marriage
Content notes: infidelity.
Quiz
How well do you remember She-Devil? Test yourself on the story.
