Movie Monday March 14: The Unforgivable

After a short break, I’m back with another movie! I decided to go for something a bit darker this time. Several people have recommended the Sandra Bullock led The Unforgivable (she’s one of my favorite actresses so I had to see it).

**Warning, mild spoilers ahead, so if you haven’t watched the movie yet, what are you doing?**

After spending 20 years in prison for killing a sheriff sent to evict her and her five-year-old sister Katie (Aisling Franciosi), Ruth Slater (Bullock) is released. Ruth raised Katie after their mother died in childbirth and father committed suicide, but she hasn’t seen or heard from Katie since she went to prison. She slowly starts to get her life back on track, but can’t let go of her need to find Katie, who is now being raised by an adoptive family. After getting help from John (Vincent D’Onofrio), a lawyer who now lives in the Slater’s old home, Ruth is able to meet with Katie’s adoptive parents. They are reluctant to let Ruth into Katie’s life, having not told Katie anything about her past. Meanwhile, one of the deceased sheriff’s sons, Steve (Will Pullen), stalks Ruth, waiting to get revenge for his father’s death. All of this comes to a head that could land Ruth back in prison, or possibly even dead.

I was a mess after watching this movie. As someone who cries easily when watching movies, The Unforgivable had me teary eyed for at least half of the film. Sandra Bullock is a powerhouse in her performance. Her character doesn’t say much, but the emotions are so real and palpable. The entire cast is great, which also included the very talented Viola Davis as John’s wife Liz. 

Most of my favorite movies fall into the mystery or thriller genre, and while this isn’t really either of those, the tension is on point. The cinematography and direction really help set the tone for the film and allow for some amazing performances. I’d probably have to say this is one of my favorite dramas I’ve seen in the last year or so.

The Unforgivable is a heart wrenching and very real portrayal of trauma and grief. Each character is flawed in a way that humanizes their emotions and gives truth to the actors’ performances. The writers Peter Craig, Hillary Seitz, and Courtenay Miles really have something special here. As a writer who’s dabbled in screenwriting, I can only hope that one day I can get at least close to the level they’re at.

If you’re looking for a tearjerker full of emotional performances, tension filled scenes, and hints of a happier ending, The Unforgivable is a great choice.

One moment that made me cry: When Liz confronts Ruth about her situation and her time in prison and we the audience find out the truth. I won’t spoil it here, but it’s so powerful and adds a whole new dimension for Ruth and what she has gone through.

One moment that made me hold my breath: The final confrontation between Steve and Ruth. Again, no spoilers, but it really could have gone either way. That scene is another testament to the writers’ abilities.

I’d give The Unforgivable 9 creepy phone calls out of 10.