This was, as the previous comment stated an exceptional piece of work, with acting par excellence. I agree that the critics missed the missed the superb work by Oldman and also that Hoppers' part was anything but a cameo. I loved it, and too, wondered how it slipped through the cracks. Being based on a true story, made it that much more interesting, as well as thought provoking, albeit I don't know how much embellishment was added. In my opinion, there was no bad, or even mediocre acting from any of the cast. Each player conveyed their part to the point where you could either sympathize or empathize with them. In the end it's good to see that "good" wins over "bad", enveloping the value of human perseverance and tenacity. I would recommend this film to anyone.