Men Don't Leave is a 1990 drama film directed by Paul Brickman. The film stars Jessica Lange as Beth Macauley, a woman struggling to cope with the sudden death of her husband and the financial difficulties that ensue. Beth's two sons, Chris and Matt, also struggle to come to terms with the loss of their father and the prospect of starting a new life in a new city.
Beth decides to sell the family home in Bingham and move to Baltimore, where she hopes to find work and a more affordable place to live. She is initially supported in her decision by her close friend and neighbor, Jody (Kathy Bates), but soon finds herself struggling to make ends meet and dealing with new challenges such as raising her children alone and navigating the dating scene.
As Beth tries to rebuild her life, she meets and falls in love with a bookstore owner named Sam (Chris O'Donnell). However, the challenges of raising two children and dealing with their grief, coupled with financial stress and the disapproval of some family members, threaten to strain their relationship.
Men Don't Leave explores themes of loss, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The film received positive reviews for its honest portrayal of the challenges faced by single mothers and the impact of grief on family dynamics.
