The film revolves around Rose Morgan (played by Barbra Streisand), a shy and insecure professor of English literature who has all but given up on finding love. Rose’s mother, Hannah (played by Lauren Bacall), is a glamorous and domineering woman who constantly criticizes Rose’s appearance and romantic prospects.
In contrast, Gregory Larkin (played by Jeff Bridges) is a brilliant but emotionally distant math professor who is also disillusioned with love and relationships. Gregory proposes to Rose a strictly platonic marriage of convenience, based on mutual companionship and shared interests, without the complications of physical intimacy.
Rose agrees to Gregory’s proposal, hoping that their unconventional arrangement will provide her with companionship and stability. As they navigate their new relationship, Rose and Gregory discover that they have much in common and begin to develop a deep emotional connection.
However, as their friendship blossoms into love, Gregory struggles to overcome his fear of intimacy and commitment. He becomes increasingly distant and withdrawn, unable to reciprocate Rose’s feelings or fully embrace their relationship.
Meanwhile, Rose’s confidence and self-esteem grow as she begins to assert herself and pursue her own passions and interests. She gains recognition as a successful author and lecturer, finding fulfillment and purpose outside of her relationship with Gregory.
In the climax of the film, Rose confronts Gregory about his emotional unavailability and the limitations of their relationship. Despite her love for him, she realizes that she deserves someone who can fully reciprocate her feelings and give her the emotional support she needs.
Heartbroken but determined to move forward with her life, Rose ends her marriage to Gregory and focuses on her career and personal growth. In the end, she finds happiness and fulfillment on her own terms, embracing her independence and embracing her true self.
“The Mirror Has Two Faces” is praised for its thoughtful exploration of love, self-acceptance, and personal growth. It offers a nuanced portrayal of relationships and the complexities of human emotions, with Barbra Streisand delivering a standout performance as a woman who learns to love herself and find happiness on her own terms.