Review of Frozen River (2008) by Jim G — 21 Feb 2009
Frozen River is an excellent film with a truly magnificent lead performance by Melissa Leo. Almost painful to watch at times, Frozen River chronicles the story of a struggling single mother whose devastating life is not unlike many of the general, lower class populace.
Working at a dollar store unable to get a promotion due to her ignorant boss, Melissa Leo's character, Ray, engages in illegal smuggling to make ends meet. On the way, she builds an interesting relationship with a Mohawk Indian, Lila, and worries about the consequences these ventures may take.
The directing is simplistic, a smart choice, because it shows how this story is so close to home with certain Americans unable to live the "American dream." Each of the leads have their own children that complicate matters, and some of the scenes with them are truly sad.
As I said earlier, Melissa Leo's performance is excellent; she's at wits end with her whole life, and her feelings of love and hate are hard to discern to due her troubles. The Academy nominated her for a Best Actress nod and she deserves it.
It is an excellent performance. All in all, Frozen River is a simple, barren film that packs an emotional punch.
This review of Frozen River (2008) was written by Jim G on 21 Feb 2009.
Frozen River has generally received positive reviews.
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