In a heartfelt tribute to the indelible legacy of country music icon and beloved entertainer Dolly Parton, AMC Theatres has announced a special limited engagement screening of two of her most cherished big-screen performances. Starting today, August 28, and running through Wednesday, September 2, 200 AMC locations across the United States will present the 1982 musical dramedy The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and the 1989 classic Steel Magnolias. The initiative, confirmed by AMC CEO Adam Aron, provides fans with an opportunity to celebrate Parton’s multifaceted career at discounted prices, following her passing on Tuesday, August 25, at the age of 80 after a brief battle with cancer.
A Cinematic Farewell: Celebrating a Cultural Icon
Dolly Parton, widely revered as the "Queen of Country," transcended musical genres to become a global cultural phenomenon, known not only for her songwriting prowess and vocal talent but also for her distinctive personality, business acumen, and profound philanthropy. Her foray into film further solidified her status as a versatile entertainer capable of captivating audiences across different mediums. The decision by AMC Theatres to revive these two particular films underscores their significance in Parton’s cinematic journey and their enduring popularity among her vast fanbase. These screenings offer a communal space for grieving fans to remember and honor a star who touched millions with her art and spirit.
The tribute comes just days after the announcement of Parton’s death, which sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and among her global admirers. Tributes have poured in from fellow artists, political figures, and fans, all mourning the loss of a truly unique and generous spirit. AMC’s rapid response to organize these screenings highlights the immediate desire within the public to collectively celebrate and reflect on Parton’s monumental contributions to music, film, and culture.
Dolly Parton’s Journey to the Silver Screen
While Parton was already an established country music superstar by the late 1970s, her transition to acting in the 1980s marked a new chapter in her career, allowing her to showcase a different facet of her storytelling abilities and comedic timing. Her on-screen persona, often an extension of her warm, witty, and resilient public image, resonated deeply with moviegoers. These films, far from being mere vanity projects, became integral parts of her artistic output, earning critical acclaim and significant box office success.
Parton’s film career officially began with her unforgettable role in the 1980 hit comedy 9 to 5, co-starring with Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. This debut was a resounding success, not only launching her acting career but also producing the iconic theme song, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart. 9 to 5 established Parton as a bankable movie star and paved the way for subsequent roles, including the two films now being celebrated by AMC. Her ability to translate her larger-than-life stage presence to the intimacy of the cinema screen was a testament to her innate talent and charisma.
Deep Dive: The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas (1982)
The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas represented a significant early cinematic achievement for Parton. Based on the 1978 Broadway musical of the same name, which itself drew inspiration from a true story, the film adaptation saw Parton taking on the lead role of Mona Stangely, the beloved madame of the infamous Chicken Ranch brothel. The narrative follows Mona’s struggle to maintain her establishment and her secret romantic relationship with local sheriff Ed Earl Dodd, played by then-box office titan Burt Reynolds, when a zealous television reporter, Melvin P. Thorpe (Dom DeLuise), decides to expose the operation.
The film was a commercial success, demonstrating Parton’s drawing power as a leading lady. It earned two Golden Globe nominations, with Parton herself recognized for Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. Charles Durning, who portrayed the Texas governor, also received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, highlighting the strength of the ensemble cast. The chemistry between Parton and Reynolds was a major draw, blending humor, heart, and a touch of raunchiness that endeared the film to audiences.
Musically, the film incorporated several songs from the original Broadway score, alongside two new compositions by Parton. Most notably, it featured a re-recorded version of her seminal ballad "I Will Always Love You," which she originally wrote and released in 1974. The 1982 single release from the film once again topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in October of that year, eight years after its initial chart-topping run. This achievement underscored the song’s timeless appeal and Parton’s unique ability to reinvent her own classics. The film’s soundtrack further showcased Parton’s songwriting genius, blending poignant ballads with upbeat, character-driven numbers.
Deep Dive: Steel Magnolias (1989)
Seven years after The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Dolly Parton graced the screen again in another adaptation from a celebrated stage production: Steel Magnolias. This film, based on Robert Harling’s highly successful 1987 off-Broadway play, explored the lives of a close-knit group of six women in a small Louisiana town, focusing on themes of friendship, resilience, and the universal experience of joy and sorrow. Parton starred as Truvy Jones, the outspoken and endearing owner of the local beauty salon, which serves as the central hub for the women’s gossip, camaraderie, and emotional support.
Steel Magnolias boasted an extraordinary ensemble cast, featuring a constellation of Hollywood stars including Sally Field as the devoted mother M’Lynn Eatenton, Shirley MacLaine as the curmudgeonly Ouiser Boudreaux, Daryl Hannah as the shy Annelle Dupuy Desoto, Olympia Dukakis as the wise Clairee Belcher, and a breakout performance by Julia Roberts as the spirited Shelby Eatenton Latcherie. The film also included notable male actors like Tom Skerritt, Sam Shepard, and Dylan McDermott, though the narrative firmly centered on the female relationships.
The film was another significant box office success for Parton and garnered considerable critical acclaim, particularly for its powerful performances. Julia Roberts received a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress and an Academy Award nomination in the same category, cementing her status as a rising star. Sally Field also earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Steel Magnolias has since become a beloved classic, frequently celebrated for its poignant portrayal of female friendship, its humor in the face of adversity, and its emotional depth, all qualities that Parton’s character, Truvy, embodied with charm and grace. Her character’s salon served as the heart of the community, mirroring Parton’s own role as a unifying and comforting presence in popular culture.
Dolly Parton’s Enduring Legacy and Cinematic Journey
Dolly Parton’s filmography, though not as extensive as her musical catalog, comprises a dozen appearances that left an indelible mark. Beyond 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, and Steel Magnolias, her career included a diverse range of roles. In 1984, she starred opposite Sylvester Stallone in the musical comedy Rhinestone, a film that, despite mixed critical reception, further showcased her willingness to take risks and experiment with different genres. Her role in the 1992 talk radio comedy Straight Talk demonstrated her continued appeal as a leading lady capable of carrying a film. Later in her career, Parton also lent her voice and presence to various television projects and animated features, consistently maintaining her connection with audiences across generations.
Parton’s cinematic choices often reflected her own values and background, frequently portraying strong, independent women who navigated complex social landscapes with wit and resilience. Her roles, much like her music, often championed the underdog and celebrated authenticity, earning her a loyal following far beyond country music circles. She became a symbol of self-made success, unapologetic femininity, and unwavering generosity.
The Power of Communal Remembrance
The decision by AMC Theatres to offer these special screenings is more than just a commercial endeavor; it is a recognition of Dolly Parton’s profound cultural impact and an invitation for collective mourning and celebration. In an era dominated by streaming and individual viewing experiences, the opportunity to gather in a darkened theater, surrounded by fellow fans, to watch these iconic films takes on a deeper significance. It allows for a shared emotional experience, reinforcing the bonds that connect fans to artists and to each other.
AMC CEO Adam Aron’s announcement underscores the company’s commitment to honoring legends and responding to the public’s desire for communal experiences, especially during times of shared grief. The discounted ticket prices make these tributes accessible to a wider audience, ensuring that as many people as possible can participate in this cinematic homage. The films will run from Friday, August 28, through Wednesday, September 2, offering multiple opportunities for fans to attend. Information regarding specific screening times and locations for The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and Steel Magnolias is available on the AMC Theatres website.
This initiative is a poignant reminder of Dolly Parton’s enduring appeal and the timeless quality of her work. Her passing leaves a void in the entertainment world, but her legacy, meticulously built over decades, will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come. Through these special screenings, AMC Theatres provides a fitting and respectful way for communities to collectively say goodbye to a true American icon, whose music and films brought joy, laughter, and comfort to countless lives. The roar of the audience, the shared tears, and the collective applause will serve as a testament to the extraordinary life and career of Dolly Parton.
