At first, had a difficult time staying with the story-line. Had to remind myself that is a "True Life Occurrence"...I have not read the book, so I don't know how close it was played.
With the time limitation of film, I feel that the characters were developed as best as they could.
This is a hard core, in your face, look at addictions & mental illnesses; that is presented at a level many families may be comfortable allowing their children to watch.
Not knowing the ultimate outcome I have admit I choked-up and shouted AMEN when Ashley said, "No!"
It was a hard movie to watch, as it should be.
I do recommend it.