Places in the Heart 1984
"The story of a woman fighting for her children, for her land, for the greatest dream there is... the future."
Directed by Robert Benton, *Places in the Heart* (1984) immerses viewers in the gritty, heartfelt struggle of Edna Spaulding, a resilient widow in 1935 Texas fighting to keep her family's farm afloat.
Director: Robert Benton
Cast
Sally Field
Edna Spalding
Lindsay Crouse
Margaret Lomax
John Malkovich
Mr. Will
Danny Glover
Moze
Ed Harris
Wayne Lomax
Ray Baker
Sheriff Royce Spalding
Amy Madigan
Viola Kelsey
Terry O'Quinn
Buddy Kelsey
Bert Remsen
Tee Tot Hightower
Jay Patterson
W.E. Simmons
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Places in the Heart (1984) about?
Set in 1935 rural Texas, *Places in the Heart* follows Edna Spaulding, a recently widowed mother struggling to hold onto her farm while raising two children. With little money and mounting threats—from nature's fury to human prejudice—she leans on her community for survival, proving that determination can outlast any storm.
Who directed Places in the Heart?
Robert Benton directed this poignant drama, bringing a raw, emotional authenticity to the struggles of 1930s America.
Who stars in Places in the Heart?
The film features an outstanding cast led by Sally Field, Lindsay Crouse, John Malkovich, Danny Glover, Ed Harris, and Ray Baker.
Is Places in the Heart (1984) worth watching?
*Places in the Heart* is a deeply moving drama that earned Sally Field an Academy Award for Best Actress. Its themes of resilience and community, combined with stellar performances, make it a compelling watch for fans of period dramas and emotionally rich storytelling.
How long is Places in the Heart?
The runtime of *Places in the Heart* is 111 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Places in the Heart (1984) — A Widow's Fight for Land, Family and Hope in 1930s Texas
Directed by Robert Benton, *Places in the Heart* (1984) immerses viewers in the gritty, heartfelt struggle of Edna Spaulding, a resilient widow in 1935 Texas fighting to keep her family's farm afloat. With two young children in tow and barely enough money to survive, Edna faces relentless challenges—an ominous tornado, the looming threat of the Ku Klux Klan, and the harsh realities of rural life. Her journey is shaped by unexpected allies: her sister Margaret, a blind tenant named Mr. Will, and Moze, a former thief who becomes an unlikely mentor in farming. Benton crafts a poignant drama that blends raw emotion with historical context, showcasing the unbreakable spirit of a woman determined to secure a future against all odds.
This Oscar-winning film delivers a powerful exploration of community, resilience, and the quiet heroism found in everyday struggles. Starring Sally Field in a career-defining role, alongside standout performances from John Malkovich and Danny Glover, *Places in the Heart* is a timeless story of perseverance that resonates with anyone who's ever fought for something meaningful.
