Courtney Hunts feature debut is stronger than most of the veteran directors films this year, which may not seem like much of a compliment considering the offerings from them, but is it.The film is not just about the struggles of a single mother, or human trafficking, but rather a look at some of the other things that are going horrible wrong with America. The brilliant screenplay touches on terrorism, the sex industry, homeland security the plight of the Native American and an underclass in American that is struggling to survive.
Melissa Leo has garnered a majority of praise for her performance of Ray Eddy, and indeed it is deserved. She never makes Ray sympathetic, and indeed some of the choices she makes, are outright shocking and disgusting. What makes it such a fantastic performance though is how fully realised the character is. Small scenes where a grand emotional outpouring could take place, barely a tear falls down her face. This is a woman who has been through so much, it would take much more that a fight to make her break down.
Misty Upman, who plays Lila, gives an honest and beautiful performance. Slowly stripping away the layers off this thick skinned woman to reveal a soul at odds with her path and ultimately seeking redemption.
The true star though writer director Courtney Hunt who has directed and written a film that is gripping, intelligent and more importantly, honest.
Grade: A-
3 comments:
too bad everyone else but Melissa Leo couldn't act worth a damn.
to robyn, really? i thought charlie mcdermott did wonders with his limited role.
this was one of the most solid scripts of 2008 and i'm glad the academy recognized it. too bad it was in the expense of another great indie script- the visitor.
Totally agreed. I wrote a review of this recently, too and also gave it an A-. Wonderful stuff.
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