 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio
- Review Date: March 12, 2006
- PG-13
- Genre: Drama
- 2005
Common Sense Media says
Charming but a bit disturbing; ok for teens.
Parents say
QUALITY
Kids say
QUALITY
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this movie includes several tense family scenes, specifically when the father is inebriated and the mother must smooth over his anger and ugliness in front of their children. At one point, furious that a son has had a car accident, the father starts hitting and chasing him through the house; and in an especially disturbing scene, following a brief struggle, the mother falls on glass milk bottles she's carrying, spilling milk and her blood (from the broken glass) all over the floor, as children look on and cry. The kids reveal their own fears and resentment, fretting that Mom will leave even for a day, and once singing a version of "Row your boat" where they imagine throwing Dad overboard "just to hear him scream."
What's the story?
THE PRIZE WINNER OF DEFIANCE, OHIO tells the story of remarkable '50s housewife, Evelyn Ryan (Julianne Moore). (It's based on a book by one of Ryan's real-life daughters, Terry.) Evelyn's 10 kids and machinist husband Kelly (Woody Harrelson), depend on her as their rock. She also pursues her own interests by writing ad copy, or jingles, for various products. She wins enough prizes to help support the family, as Kelly slips into depression and alcoholism. Evelyn rarely reveals the toll Kelly's problems take on her, and then, usually, to instruct her children in the value of optimism. But Evelyn's pain is explicitly and bizarrely exposed when, while arguing with Kelly, she falls and is injured. Kelly apologizes for his oafishness, again. "I just want to make you happy," he moans. She schools him: "I don't need you to make me happy. I just need you to leave me alone when I am." Kelly can't comprehend the devastation that impels this request, as the movie posits him as just too dumb to "get" her. But you're left with another sense of Evelyn altogether, one who is independent and fierce, sustained below the surface of her functions as durable housewife and loving mom.
Is it any good?
Jane Anderson's film is a doting, adorable, and sometimes disturbing portrait of Evelyn. As Evelyn both supports and exploits an expanding commercial culture through her "contesting," the film doesn't quite challenge the surface she's perpetuating. But it does illustrate it in some detail, including an animated montage that accompanies her listing of prizes (a palm tree, a lifetime supply of birdseed, clothing, and a pony), and the Affadaisies, a coterie of other contesters organized by Dortha (Laura Dern). One member is an always beaming lady in an iron lung that's painted happy-yellow (such irony, while perverse, gives the movie a brief, welcome edge).
Explore, discuss, enjoy
Families can talk about Evelyn and Kelly's relationship, as she repeatedly takes care of him. Why would this couple stay together when it's clear they and their children are miserable? Would things be different if this movie was set in the present? Why or why not?
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Adult
April 9, 2008
AGE
What a well done movie!
I watched this based on a friend's recommendation. I wasn't quite sure what to expect. The cast plays their parts VERY WELL! I couldn't decide if I wanted to hate or pity the Dad. I watched this with my preteen, and teenager. I would definitely not recommend this to the under 12 set. There are some very disturbing images, and some pretty hard scenes to deal with. And if you have a sensitive, older kid, you might want to pass this by as well. Both of my kids really liked it, and we watched it 2x in one afternoon! I hope you enjoy it too.
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Teen, 14 years old
January 6, 2011
AGE
heartwarming, ok for older kids, great choice for teens and adults
Such a great film: heartwarming, but fresh. It is a crowd pleaser, and is a great choice for adults, teens, and kids ages 10-12 and up, depending on maturity level. There is some domestic violence, lots of drinking, and foul language, but, for most, it shouldn't pose a problem.
What other families should know:
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Teen, 14 years old
April 9, 2008
AGE
A great movie for more mature teenagers.
I have contradicting opinions, in regards to recommending this movie.
For more mature teens, I think it is a great movie, that will make you think.
It shows just what exactly many "50's housewives" often had to deal with.
Dead beat husbands who abuse them.
I wouldnt recommend it to any kids under 13 unless they are mature for their age.
Over all, I was very glad that I saw it. An absolute wonderful movie.
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| Studio: | DreamWorks |
| Director: | Jane Anderson |
| Cast: | Julianne Moore, Laura Dern, Woody Harrelson |
| Genre: | Drama |
| Run time: | 99 minutes |
| Theatrical release date: | October 7, 2005 |
| DVD release date: | March 14, 2006 |
| MPAA rating: | PG-13 |
| MPAA explanation: | thematic elements, some disturbing images and language |
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