Stella 1990

Drama

Romance

Box Office

$20M

Runtime

109 min

Language

English

Directed by

John Erman

Made by

Buena Vista Pictures

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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Stella (1990). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

Stella, portrayed by Bette Midler, is a spirited and independent woman working in a lively bar when she encounters the charming young Dr. Steve Dallas, played by Stephen Collins. Despite their vastly different social backgrounds, they embark on a passionate affair that leads to Stella’s unexpected pregnancy. When Steve makes a half-hearted marriage proposal, Stella confidently declines, choosing instead to raise their daughter, Jenny, on her own. Throughout this journey, she finds unwavering support from her loyal friend, Ed Munn, depicted by John Goodman, a friendly barfly who encourages her every step of the way.

Filled with determination and pride, Stella takes on various jobs to provide the best life possible for Jenny. However, when Jenny is four years old, Steve reenters their lives, eager to form a relationship with his daughter. Initially hesitant, Stella allows the connection, leading to a heartwarming bond between father and daughter. As time passes, Jenny, portrayed by Trini Alvarado, finds herself torn between her father’s affluent lifestyle and her loyalty to her mother, who, though impoverished and unrefined, is fiercely devoted.

Adding to the complexity, Jenny begins to notice a troubling shift in Stella and Ed’s relationship, as Ed struggles with alcoholism and personal issues. As Jenny delves deeper into a romance with a boy from her father’s privileged world, Stella becomes increasingly aware that the stark differences in their backgrounds could threaten her daughter’s happiness. With a heavy heart, Stella makes a poignant decision in the film’s final moments to ensure that Jenny’s future is secure, demonstrating the lengths a mother will go for her child’s well-being.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Stella (1990) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Stella Meets Steve

Stella, a spirited woman working in a lively bar, encounters Dr. Steve Dallas, a charming young doctor. Their differing social backgrounds set the stage for an exciting but complicated romance.

The bar

The Affair Begins

Despite their differences, Stella and Steve embark on a passionate affair that quickly intensifies. They share moments that challenge their perceptions of love and relationship dynamics.

Unexpected Pregnancy

Stella discovers she is unexpectedly pregnant, a situation that alters the course of her life dramatically. She must grapple with the reality of becoming a mother and the implications for her relationship with Steve.

Marriage Proposal

Steve proposes marriage to Stella, but she confidently declines his half-hearted offer. Stella chooses to embrace single motherhood and takes on the responsibility of raising their daughter, Jenny.

Support from Ed

Throughout her journey of motherhood, Stella receives unwavering support from her friend Ed Munn. As a friendly barfly, Ed encourages Stella, helping her navigate the trials of raising Jenny on her own.

Stella's Determination

Filled with pride and determination, Stella takes on various jobs to provide a good life for Jenny. She embraces the challenges of being a single mother with resilience and a fierce dedication.

Steve Reenters Their Lives

When Jenny turns four, Steve returns, eager to bond with his daughter. This unexpected reentry sparks hesitation in Stella, who worries about the influence he may have.

Father-Daughter Bond

Stella reluctantly allows Steve to form a connection with Jenny, which leads to a heartwarming bond. Both Stella and Steve navigate the complexities of co-parenting and their past relationship.

Jenny's Dilemma

As Jenny develops a relationship with a boy from her father's affluent world, she feels torn between two different lifestyles. This emotional conflict weighs heavily on her youthful heart and mind.

Struggles with Alcoholism

Jenny begins to notice troubling changes in the relationship between Stella and Ed, as Ed grapples with alcoholism. This adds tension to an already complicated family dynamic.

Background Differences

Stella becomes increasingly aware of how the stark differences in their backgrounds could impact Jenny's happiness. She worries that her daughter's affluent lifestyle may pull her away from their close bond.

A Mother's Decision

In the film's poignant final moments, Stella makes a heart-wrenching decision for Jenny's future. She demonstrates the lengths to which a mother will go to protect her child's well-being and happiness.

Characters

Explore all characters from Stella (1990). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Stella

Stella is a spirited and independent woman who embodies resilience and determination. Despite facing social and economic hardships, she is committed to raising her daughter, Jenny, on her own, showcasing her fierce independence and strong maternal instincts. Her journey is marked by both personal sacrifice and growth.

🌟 Independent 💪 Resilient

Dr. Steve Dallas

Steve is a charming and affluent young doctor who initially captures Stella's attention. His half-hearted marriage proposal highlights his immaturity and the social divide between him and Stella. As the story progresses, Steve’s character evolves, showing a desire to reconnect with his daughter, Jenny, which adds complexity to his role.

💼 Affluent 💔 Conflicted

Ed Munn

Ed is Stella's loyal friend and barfly, providing unwavering support throughout her struggles. However, he also battles personal issues such as alcoholism, adding depth to his character. His relationship with Stella becomes strained, reflecting the challenges of friendship amid personal demons.

🍻 Supportive ⚠️ Struggling

Jenny

Jenny is Stella's daughter, torn between her mother's working-class upbringing and her father's affluent lifestyle. Her character navigates the complexities of love and loyalty, leading to pivotal decisions that impact her relationships with both her parents as she seeks her identity.

👧 Torn ❤️ Loyal

Setting

Learn where and when Stella (1990) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

The story unfolds in a contemporary setting, reflecting modern societal issues such as single parenthood, class disparity, and personal growth. The character experiences resonate with current themes of independence and familial responsibility.

Location

Lively Bar, Affluent Neighborhood

The movie takes place primarily in a lively bar where Stella works, known for its spirited atmosphere and diverse patrons. This setting contrasts sharply with the affluent neighborhood that represents Dr. Steve Dallas's world, highlighting the social divide between the characters.

🍹 Bar 🏙️ Neighborhood

Themes

Discover the main themes in Stella (1990). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

❤️

Love & Sacrifice

The theme revolves around the unconditional love Stella has for her daughter, Jenny, and the sacrifices she makes to ensure her well-being. Despite the challenges posed by her socioeconomic status, Stella's determination to give Jenny a better life showcases the depth of a mother's love. This theme is further magnified as Stella navigates complex relationships with both Steve and her loyal friend Ed.

🎭

Social Class Conflict

The film explores the stark contrasts between different social classes, primarily through Stella's humble background and Steve's affluent lifestyle. Jenny's internal struggle between her mother's love and her father's wealth symbolizes the broader theme of identity and belonging, illustrating how material wealth can complicate personal relationships.

💔

Personal Struggles

Stella's journey is not just about motherhood but also her personal battles, including Ed's alcoholism and the emotional turmoil of raising a child alone. This theme emphasizes the importance of support systems and the hardships that often accompany personal growth. Stella's resilience in facing these struggles exemplifies the strength found within oneself.

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