Rotten
It makes for a nice Mother's Day card. But not enough for a complete movie.
Bob Longino, Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio
She raised ten kids on twenty five words or less.
2005 · 1h 39m · PG-13
Drama
Directed by
Jane Anderson
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The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio
Overview
A Midwestern housewife supports her large family by entering contests for ad slogans sponsored by consumer product companies, while dealing with abuse from her alcoholic husband. Based on a true story.
Director and cast
- Jane Anderson Director
- Julianne Moore as Evelyn Ryan
- Woody Harrelson as Kelly Ryan
- Laura Dern as Dortha Schaefer
- Trevor Morgan as Bruce Ryan
- Ellary Porterfield as Tuff Ryan
- Simon Reynolds as Ray the Milkman
- Robert Clark as Dick Ryan
- Michael Seater as Bub Ryan at 15 yrs
- Jordan Todosey as Tuff Ryan at 9 yrs
- Jack Murray as Rog Ryan at 17 yrs
Critics on Rotten Tomatoes
Top critics, in their words
58%
Tomatometer
Fresh
Rarely do you have a movie in which both lead actors give Oscar-worthy performances, but Defiance, Ohio is one.
Bill Muller, Arizona Republic
Fresh
For once, a true story gets no romanticizing or needless embellishment to become a captivating movie.
Susan Walker, Toronto Star
Fresh
An uneven but loving tribute to a remarkable woman -- who would, undoubtedly, have wished to rewrite it herself.
Moira MacDonald, Seattle Times
Fresh
What distinguishes Anderson's work is her obvious empathy with all of her characters, including Kelly Ryan, whom she does not demonize.
Carrie Rickey, Philadelphia Inquirer
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