Stanley & Iris

An American romantic drama film released in 1990, directed by Martin Ritt and written by Harriet Frank Jr. and Irving Ravetch, based on the novel "Union Street" by Pat Barker. The film stars Jane Fonda and Robert De Niro. Set in Connecticut, the story follows Iris King, a widow working in a bakery, and Stanley Cox, a cook who is illiterate. Their friendship blossoms into a romantic relationship as Iris helps Stanley learn to read and write. The film explores themes of adult illiteracy, economic hardship, and emotional healing. It was Ritt's final directorial work before his death in December 1990. The film received mixed reviews from critics and grossed approximately $5.8 million against a budget of $23 million.