Review of Bastard Out of Carolina (1996) by Elaine M — 15 Apr 2009
Struggling young mother of two Anney turns to a new man in hope of a better life, but fails to discern the sexual and physical abuse he puts her eldest daughter Ruth-Anne through. Told from the perspective of Ruth-Anne herself (and narrated by the amazing Laura Dern), 'Bastard Out Of Carolina' is a truly brutal portrayal of child abuse that manages to be really effective without a soppy Hollywood grounding, especially thanks to its ironic choice to pair such a peaceful setting with some pretty graphic and disturbing content.
What makes it such a great film though really is the acting. Jennifer Jason Leigh and Ron Eldard are great sure, but Jena Malone was only about 11 when this was made, and she is just a million times better than like, anyone ever, and furthermore, any movie that puts Christina Ricci and Jena Malone together in a scene immediately deserves four stars (although a little more screentime for Ricci wouldn't have hurt).
Excellent but heavy-going drama, that judging by her performance you will not believe was Jena's first film...
This review of Bastard Out of Carolina (1996) was written by Elaine M on 15 Apr 2009.
Bastard Out of Carolina has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
