MovieChat Forums > The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio (2007) Discussion > Loved the picture.

Loved the picture.

posted 18 years ago by danajohnhill
5 replies | jump to latest

I loved this film, from the heartwarming story to the period atmosphere, with authentic-looking sets, costumes, and even appliances.

Julianne Moore as Mrs. Ryan was a delight (and a beauty). I found it almost hard to believe that anyone could be so saintly, so devoted to the happiness of others, and blessed with such a positive attitude. Her goodness made it all the more sad to see Mr. Ryan's breakdowns, and it was a real reflection of the toll alcohol takes on many families. It would have been an entirely different film, of course, had he beat her.

I found the Mrs. Ryan's enjoyable, and, as much as they were completely unlike anything that happens in real life, the narration was sweet.

[–] Old-Man-River 18 years ago

I'll second that. I first thought it was going to be a silly chick flick, but my opinion quickly changed. This was the best movie ("heartwarming" is right) that I have seen in a long while. Mrs. Ryan should be nominated into sainthood. I intend to read the book.

I come here a lot because it's a well lighted place.

[–] mlone 18 years ago

I was hesitant to see the movie, because I absolutely LOVED the book and was afraid I would be disappointed by the film. Well, guess what: the movie is great too! I really enjoyed it and thought it was a very well-done screenplay, with great performances all around. Bravo!

[–] Inthalight 18 years ago

This slice of life from the 50's is extremely moving. Her ability to keep her cool was nothing short of supernatural and exemplifies her intelligence as did winning all those prizes on such a consistant bases. Do I even need to mention the mental fortitude she would have needed to raise 10 kids(all though some what common for the time)and set such a steller example for each. I just loved the banter at the womens group. Laura Dern is also a treat. All in all Evelyn Ryan was an incredible example of a true lady and not only deserved to have a book and movie made about her but deserves her own national holiday. Amen!

[–] tmontyb 18 years ago

I first thought it was going to be a silly chick flick, but my opinion quickly changed

I agree. I wanted something to watch on cable in HD and was between this and Rush Hour on Showtime. I decided to give this film a try and I'm very happy that I did.

[–] karenhummel 17 years ago

A truly wonderful movie, a breath of fresh air compared to the blood and guts of so many Hollywood blockbusters. Evelyn lived for her children and I believe loved her limited husband for the man he was before they married. Divorce was almost unheard of back in the 50's and women were looked down upon. She was obviously a talented writer who instead of working for a large newspaper or possibly in advertising found a way to help support her growing family. Very few women back then worked at all and the ones that did were almost unheard of in typical suburbs. Nowadays more than 50% of applicants enrolling in med school are women. My grandmother born in 1905 was one of the rare women that worked in her era, even my mother had a career through the 50's , 60's and 70's. Evelyn was so full of life and found a bright side to every negative situation she had to endure. How sad Kelly could not learn from her a find solace in his loving family.