Conviction: Moving story of sibling support

Written by Mark Schumann, Father of Three
Wednesday, 24 November 2010 10:28

Each week, the Reel Dad checks the nutritional value of a movie — new or classic — to help parents choose what to watch with their children. This week’s pick is a new film from actress Hilary Swank, Conviction.

We all have people we would anything for.

Some are family, some are friends, all our essential to our lives.

And we know, instinctively, that if something happens to any of them we will step outside of our lives to make a difference in theirs. It’s not something we necessarily need to talk about. We just know.

Betty Anne Waters, the lead character in the surprisingly moving Conviction, instinctively knows that her brother is innocent when he is convicted of murder. And so she willingly puts her own life on hold to try to save his, pushing herself through law school and the judicial system to ultimately hope to right a wrong. Through her sacrifice and commitment, we learn new lessons about strength, love and persistence. That the movie works so well is a bit of a surprise given how familiar the story could feel; its impact is a tribute to the authenticity of the performances and the clarity of the writing and direction.

Hilary Swank, a most unusual winner of two Academy Awards, continues to impress and perplex in a roller coaster career. When she is good, as in her Oscar-winning Boys Don’t Cry and Million Dollar Baby, she is magnetic and powerful; when she disappoints, as in last year’s Amelia as well as some other films, she appears mechanical and forced. It’s as if she only excels when she plays the most difficult roles that require a complex combination of emotional layers. When a character is simple, or superficial, she doesn’t bring the captivating personality traits to keep our attention.

Betty Anne is anything but simple. She is gritty, caring and persistent, reacting with a natural kind of caring when others need her, but demonstrating a certain kind of selfishness when she loses interest. But she never questions her decision to abandon her routine to help her brother. Her ultimate selflessness reaches beyond sibling affection to a sense of cause, a life calling, that sets a strong example to those around her.

Fortunately, this situation gives Swank a real character to play, and the actress relishes the opportunity to sink her skills into the role. She brings more to her portrayal of the “I-want-to-save-my-brother” lawyer, in fact, than the script always requires. It’s as if Swank, with her dramatic radar finely tuned, realizes there is more to this woman than what Pamela Gray ably creates on the page, investing energy and focus beyond what the words require. She is ably supported by Minnie Driver — touching as her close friend — and Juliette Lewis as a witness to the case — in a strong cast that is well directed by Tony Goldwyn.

For a film filled with familiar images and passages, Conviction is surprisingly fresh and touching. Through Betty Anne’s efforts, we each learn what we might do to help those we care for. She also teaches us that to reach outside ourselves, and make a difference to others, may be the most effective way to heal ourselves, too. Ultimately, Betty Anne’s efforts to free her brother may be more meaningful in how she freed herself.

Film Nutritional Value:

Conviction

* Content: High. With its moving story, Conviction reminds us of the importance of family, caring and giving, appropriate reminders at any time of year.

* Entertainment: Medium. Despite the somber content, Conviction is never dull, as a result of a clean script, tight direction and the marvelous work of Hilary Swank.

* Message: High. This nutritious film gives us a lot to consider, many issues to discuss, and important topics for families to discuss.

* Relevance: High. Any opportunity to share quality family experience is valuable; Conviction can initiate important discussions with older children.

* Opportunity for Dialogue: High. There’s a great deal to talk about after sharing this most unusual, most memorable film.

(Conviction is rated PG-13 for language and violent images and runs 107 minutes.)

4 Popcorn Buckets