Writers David Weisberg and Douglas Cook, along with director Bruce Beresford created a story that was successfully broken up into three separate, but equally important, parts. Part one flew by, but held some of the most important information in the film. The audience is quickly brought up to speed on Libby (Ashley Judd) and Nick’s (Bruce Greenwood) relationship and just as quickly as we are in the know, the relationship is torn apart. Part two takes slightly longer as we see Libby transition from a woman who lost her husband, to a convicted felon who is serving her due time in prison and finally to a woman who has become wise to the reality of her life. This portion of the film is when Libby grows the most; she realizes what she is capable of and what she plans to do when she gets out of prison. Finally, the third and final part of the film is the longest, the most detailed and, by far, the most entertaining. After Libby begins to understand what has taken place over the past six years of her life she attempts, tirelessly, to find her son and to right the wrongs brought on her by her husband. Judd’s performance through all three parts of the film was one of the best I have ever seen. Her character changes from a somewhat timid wife and mother to a headstrong “widow” who refuses to let anything stand in her way of justice. She portrayed each and every aspect of her character with great vim and vigor. Along with Judd, Greenwood and Tommy Lee Jones (Travis) portrayed their characters with similar gusto and were a thrill to watch. The three characters together had a wonderful connection that successfully touched the audience and allowed them to enjoy each moment of the film. The combination of great actors, the engaging story and the exceptional delivery by the cast and crew made for a wonderful roller coaster ride. I was impressed with nearly everything that took place in this film and believe that it is one of the better dramas I’ve seen in my lifetime. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0150377/?ref_=nv_sr_1
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