“DAUNTLESS DUTY”
Starring: Hilary Swank, Sam Rockwell, Melissa Leo and Minnie Driver
Directed by: Tony Goldwyn
MPAA Rating: R for language and some violent images
Genre: Drama and Biopic
Running Time: 1 hr. 37 min
Distributed by: Fox Searchlight Pictures
By John Delia
Crime dramas are taking up a lot of movie screens lately and the frontrunner in my estimation is Conviction, a taut true account of an accused murderer. Filmmakers do an excellent job of bringing the true story to life with excellent acting, direction and a plausible Hollywood script. The crime biopic is inspirational, touching and convincing with possible Oscar nominations a plenty.
The true account follows Betty Anne Waters (Swank), the sister of convicted murderer Kenneth Waters (Rockwell), who devotes her life trying to get her brother free. The
startling crime for which 16-year-old Kenneth was convicted put the small town of Ayre in shock over the murder of the elderly Katharina Brow. Sent to jail for life due to circumstantial evidence and alleged witnesses making statements implicating him, Kenneth spends 18 years in jail. Betty Anne, a believer in her brother’s innocence, pursued a law degree and investigated the case with the help of her best friend Abra (Driver). When the use of DNA evidence comes into prominence, Betty Anne finds a way to exonerate her brother.
The amazing true story about this relentless woman that would not give up even in the face of despiration is inspiring. Her will to stand up against all odds, fight a jaded justice system, expose corruption and achieve her goal makes her a hero.
The acting by Swank, Rockwell, Melissa Leo, Peter Gallagher and Minnie Driver makes the film memorable and realistic. Director Tony Goldwyn puts the Hollywood touch in Conviction adding just the right twists and turns to keep the
drama taut and exciting. I enjoyed the way Goldwyn slowly infuses the damaging evidence and then adds police intimidation keeping the storyline interesting and eventful. When the end comes, you’ll want to cheer.
The film is rated R for language and some violent images.
FINAL ANALYSIS: An extremely good film that inspires. (4 of 5)