In the film Latifah ("Hairspray," "Chicago"), who is also the film's executive producer, stars as M'Lynn alongside a cast that includes Tony Award winner Phylicia Rashad (A Raisin in the Sun, Gem of the Ocean) as Clairee, Golden Globe and Emmy winner Alfre Woodard (Drowning Crow) as Ouiser, Grammy winner Jill Scott as Truvy, Adepero Oduye as Annelle and Condola Rashad (Stick Fly) as Shelby.

"The caliber of talent we have for this film is astounding," said Lifetime president and general manager Nancy Dubuc in an earlier statement. "Queen Latifah, Phylicia, Alfre, Jill, Adepero and Condola are some of the most celebrated women in music, film, television and stage – and we could not be more thrilled and honored for them to bring Robert Harling's poignant story about the strength of women to a whole new generation."

Kenny Leon (The Mountaintop, Stick Fly) directs the film, which features a script that has been adapted for television by Sally Robinson ("Iron Jawed Angels") and is based on the play and screenplay by Robert Harling ("The First Wives Club").

In an updated contemporary version, "Steel Magnolias," according to press notes, "chronicles the lives and friendship of six women in Louisiana. Supporting each other through their triumphs and tragedies, they congregate at Truvy's beauty shop to ponder the mysteries of life and death, husbands and children—and hair and nails—all the important topics that bring women together."

"Steel Magnolias" reunites Latifah with producing duo Craig Zadan and Neil Meron ("Chicago," "Hairspray," "Smash"), who are executive producers alongside Latifah, Shakim Compere and Shelby Stone. Sony Pictures Television produces.

Watch the trailer: