Waiting to Exhale is a 1995 romantic drama film directed by Forest Whitaker and based on the novel of the same name by Terry McMillan. The film stars Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, Lela Rochon and Loretta Devine. The story follows the lives of four African American women living in Phoenix, Arizona, who are struggling to find love and happiness in their personal lives while dealing with issues of race, gender, and class.
The film opens with Savannah "Vannah" Jackson (played by Houston) meeting with her married lover, Kenneth (played by Dennis Haysbert), at a hotel. When she learns that he has no plans to leave his wife, she ends the affair and begins to search for a more meaningful relationship. Meanwhile, her friend Bernadine "Bernie" Harris (played by Bassett) is dealing with her divorce from her cheating husband, John (played by Michael Beach).
The other two friends, Gloria "Glo" Matthews (played by Rochon) and Robin Stokes (played by Devine), are also struggling in their relationships. Glo is frustrated with her boyfriend who won't commit to marriage, while Robin is trying to date after a long hiatus and is nervous about getting back into the game.
As the women support each other, they also tackle issues such as job discrimination, racism, and sexism. Eventually, all four of them find some form of happiness and closure in their respective relationships.
The film was critically acclaimed for its all-black cast, portrayal of African American women, and its exploration of complex themes. It was also a commercial success, grossing over $81 million worldwide. The soundtrack, featuring songs by Houston, Mary J. Blige, and Toni Braxton, was also a huge success, selling over 12 million copies worldwide.
