When the destination of a film is predictable, it does not always dampen the journey. This endeavor holds particularly true for films that have solid storytelling and an Oscar-winning lead who embodies three beloved traits: a messed-up life, a knack for coming across lost causes and unexpectedly prevailing over formidable hurdles.
While you may argue we've given the plot away, remember, this accounts for a true story (abbreviated as BOATS). We're introduced to its gripping progress from the start, setting the stage for a good old tearjerker by the end.
Two-time Academy Award holder, Hillary Swank, brings to life the character of Sharon, a flamboyant hair stylist from Louisville, Kentucky, who happens to be the joint owner of a popular beauty salon. Her double life revolves around catering to clients during the day while indulging in excessive merrymaking after sundown. An Alcoholics Anonymous meeting does little to sober her up. She resumes her indulgence, and that's when a tragic headline on a local newspaper about a critically sick 5-year-old girl, Michelle, bereaved of her mother's presence, catches her attention.
Young Michelle, brilliantly portrayed by Emily Mitchell, and her elder sister Ashley, brought alive by Skywalker Hughes, are drawn towards Sharon's vibrancy and her peculiar fashion sense. However, their grief-stricken father, Ed, played by Alan Ritchson of "Reacher" fame, strongly resists the meddling of this stranger, who has insinuated her way into their lives uninvited.
Sharon, with her contagious positivity, suggests a fundraising event at her salon and pays a visit to Ed, bearing an envelope containing its proceeds. Barbara, Ed's mother, played by Nancy Travis, welcomes Sharon. However, Ed remains skeptical about Sharon, dismissing her as a 'disaster.' Barbara retorts, suggesting that Sharon would fit in well with the rest of them.
The emotionally rich script, co-written by Kelly Fremon Craig of "Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret" and actress-cum-writer Meg Tilly, sometimes becomes too saccharine. As Michelle's condition deteriorates, the financial burden on the family multiplies, charging up the emotional quotient of the film.
In the film, Hillary Swank conveys a multitude of emotions without saying much. Her character, through her internal conflicts, grows from being reckless and carefree to become focused and proactive. The plot could have done with fewer crises, but the objective seems to be to underline the extent of Sharon's benevolent deeds for the bereaved family.
The film is at its best during the quieter moments, especially when Ed and Sharon, who envies Sharon's free spirit, share the burden of their guilt and acknowledge their conflicting emotions regarding Sharon's involvement with the family.
Through Sharon, Swank reminds us ordinary mortals about striving to become a better version of ourselves.
