Let me start by saying the hype around Andrea Riseborough's performance is absolutely merited. It is by far the standout feature of this film and easily ranks among the best - if not the best - leading actress performances seen so far this awards season.
For many viewers, the subject matter of the film will be one that hits too close to home. Like millions of families suffering from chronically ill addicted family members, the literal highs and lows become vividly drawn out through Michael Morris' direction in this film. The film's story does a good job of centralizing around several key cast members to portray this journey of the bridges burned and people met along the way. Notable actress Allison Janney does an impeccable job playing the antagonist, albeit her best work doesn't come until the end of film's surprisingly short feeling two hour runtime.
The downturn of the film for me was Ryan Binaco's screenplay and its ending, spelling out too literal of a feel-good Hallmark story about family reconnection. Letting the audience fill in their own conclusion would have probably served a much better and relatable ending. If the credits rolled with Leslie standing on the back porch of her new {failed} diner, contemplating a drink from Royal's flask, I would have been absolutely elated. I also feel like this movie's praise would have been much higher with critics; instead it took the much easier route of predictability and jovialness, much like Leslie did with her next drink....
For many viewers, the subject matter of the film will be one that hits too close to home. Like millions of families suffering from chronically ill addicted family members, the literal highs and lows become vividly drawn out through Michael Morris' direction in this film. The film's story does a good job of centralizing around several key cast members to portray this journey of the bridges burned and people met along the way. Notable actress Allison Janney does an impeccable job playing the antagonist, albeit her best work doesn't come until the end of film's surprisingly short feeling two hour runtime.
The downturn of the film for me was Ryan Binaco's screenplay and its ending, spelling out too literal of a feel-good Hallmark story about family reconnection. Letting the audience fill in their own conclusion would have probably served a much better and relatable ending. If the credits rolled with Leslie standing on the back porch of her new {failed} diner, contemplating a drink from Royal's flask, I would have been absolutely elated. I also feel like this movie's praise would have been much higher with critics; instead it took the much easier route of predictability and jovialness, much like Leslie did with her next drink....