Conviction

Hilary Swank and Sam Rockwell in CONVICTION; Photo by Ron Batzdorff

Director Tony Goldwyn brings to the big screen the remarkable true story of Betty Anne Waters (Hilary Swank) who gave her all to exonerate her brother Kenny Waters (Sam Rockwell), convicted in 1983 to a life sentence without parole for a murder he did not commit.

Flashbacks reveal Betty Anne and Kenny's traumatic childhood and early adulthood all the way to Kenny's arrest. Convinced of his innocence and determined to fight the system, Betty Anne embarks on an 18-year journey, completing high school, college, and eventually law school to overturn her brother's guilty verdict. Minnie Driver stars as Betty Anne's best friend Abra Rice who proves to be a great help in pulling together the needed evidence along with attorney Barry Scheck (Peter Gallagher).

The strength of the movie lies in the stellar cast. Hilary Swank delivers one of her strongest performances since 'Million Dollar Baby' while Sam Rockwell excels in the challenging role of Kenny Waters, a man with extreme contrasts from a reckless kid to a hardened prisoner.

The feature's authentic feel is captured through DP Adriano Goldman's (Sin Nombre, City of Men) handheld camerawork as well as Mark Ricker's production design of the mid '60s, early '80s, and mid '90s.

Betty Anne's bravery in her quest for justice, and the unique and unbreakable bond she shared with Kenny adds intensity and emotional depth to this engaging and uplifting drama.