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How many know the name Betty Anne Waters? I would venture to say not many. Sadly in our society people only get noticed when they do something shocking, tasteless or immoral. Then they become household, reality names. The new film Conviction is incredible on many levels but at the same time it makes you wonder how many of these amazing, uplifting stories never make the light of day. Luckily for movie goers this one did
 
Betty Anne Waters (Hilary Swank) is a struggling, High School dropout, lower income, mother with two young boys. It seems her and her brother Kenny (Sam Rockwell) have never been able to catch a break; especially Kenny. Since their early childhood they have only had each other to rely on. So when Kenny is arrested, charged and sentenced to life in prison for murder all the world seems to turn their face away; except for Betty Anne. This film is the remarkable story of the love, bond and determination of two siblings and one sister’s sacrifice to see her brother set free.
 
This movie would be supreme even if it were not true. The fact that it all happened makes it even more compelling and heart moving. In a society where we are often trained to look out for ourselves and take care of numero uno many of us would give up an arm and a leg to save ourselves but very little to save another. Especially with the odds stacked against someone like Kenny. Part family drama with a large dose of courtroom and legal elements thrown in, Conviction gives a small glimpse into the 18 year struggle that the Waters family went through. 
 
The cast should be highly commended on this one. Sure it is no surprise that Swank and Rockwell deliver high levels of emotional drama and character representation. They are both superb in their field. But they are also surrounded with a group of supporting actors that knock scene after scene clean out of the park. Minnie Driver plays Betty Anne’s best friend who helps her through the tough times of law school and family drama. Her realness and genuine spirit is spot on. Juliette Lewis has only two scenes in the film but her transformation into her character and the performance she gives is award worthy. Another must mention is Melissa Leo as a police woman determined to bring Kenny to trial. Leo puts her gritty, indie character skills to good use in this one. 
 
Conviction is rated R for language and some violent images. This will automatically turn a lot of people off. I will say that it is fairly and justly rated but at the same time the theme and elements of the story are so moving that to miss a film like this would be to miss an incredible story of family and the power of sacrifice. It goes without saying that this is an adult film and not only will it be of no interest to your younger film goers it is in no way appropriate for them. But those who appreciate strong characters, a riveting story and well directed filmmaking will not want to miss this one. It gets 4 out of 5 appeals. There has never been a more inspiring film about the power and motivation of family devotion.
 
Matt Mungle
 

 
Review copyright 2010 Mungleshow Productions. Used by Permission.