Brenda Finnegan

This movie surprised me with its depth. Amazing actors playing true to life roles stunned me with their realism. These are the people we pass on the street never knowing the life and pain behind their hooded eyes. These are the people we know little about, but smugly believe we know everything that matters. Sandra Bullock is outstanding as Ruth who gave up everything to protect her home and her sister, spending half her life in prison branded as a cop killer. Viola Davis and Vincent D'Onofrio are unexpected as a married couple who decide almost against their will to help "Ruth". Even the couple who adopted Ruth's sister are well-meaning, but understandably misguided (Richard Thomas and Linda Emond). Roadblock after roadblock causes Ruth to stumble on her journey back into the world outside prison. But her simple gritty strength and strength of character serve her well. We learn just how difficult it can be to know a person's soul.