Review of The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio (2005) by M. K — 12 Nov 2007

Julianne Moore delivers another superb performance as a 50's housewife (for what seems to be the umpteenth time) struggling to support her large family by entering jingle contests. Really the only thing that makes the film so compelling is Moore - had any other actor been cast in her role, the film would have suffered tremendously.

A large cast of child actors all acquit themeselves admirably - which is somewhat shocking considering the usual performance ability of children in films. Woody Harrelson as the alcoholic husband does go a bit over the top at times, but Moore balances him out.

Consistently funny, sweet, sad, and ultimately quite touching, the film is well worth a viewing, and Moore's performance was very deserving of the Oscar nom it didn't recieve.