I thought that this film was uneven, but I appreciate the fact that they didn't go the route of a cheap Hollywood ending where Helene changes her ways after being re-united with her daughter and they live happily ever after.
Instead, we're shown that Helene is still her old, neglectful, trashy self, leaving her poor kid alone as she goes out to get high and whore around. Just as would happen in reality - leopards don't change their spots.
Even worse is how she acts in the sequel to the novel.
shareActually, I think the film shows her changing. She looks healthier, like she has indeed given up drugs. she’s not going to leave Amanda alone. She’s going to have Dottie watch her… or Patrick. Meanwhile, Patrick is keeping an eye on the situation and Amanda has moved on, naming her new doll Annabelle. I think the ending implies hope.
What happens in the book sequel, please?
I don't agree it implies she still doesn't give a crap about her daughter. going out hasn't even ask anyone yet if they are gonna look after her yet she was getting ready regardless.
she is never gonna change. it's inevitable she will get to the drugs again. she didn't even thank Patrick on TV only the cops and fire people.
I still would have made the choice Patrick made as he made a promise to the mother. I still would do what he did. but yeah I can't see it changing at all the situation for her being a better mother