By Renee’ C.
Rating: 3 (Out of 5 Reels)
Set in contemporary Chicago, amidst a time of turmoil, four women, Viola Davis as Veronica, Michelle Rodriguez as Linda, Elizabeth Debecki as Alice and Cynthia Erivo as Belle, with nothing in common accept a debt left behind by their dead husbands’ criminal activities, take fate into their own hands, and conspire to forge a future on their own terms (IMDB).
The main characters in this film start out from a somewhat passive and meek point of view but circumstances force their hand. They really do not have a choice but to take action. I admired them in their endeavor because they are trying to save themselves.
For some reason I was not expecting much from this film and was pleasantly surprised at several unexpected plot twists along the way. The main problem with this film is the length. Why do filmmakers think long uninterrupted supposedly thoughtful pauses are essential in conveying a characters angst? I would not mind them if they are rare but some directors think they are a major part of the plotline and it is annoying. We get it and do not need it to see it repeatedly.
Overall, this film is well made and acted. I particularly liked seeing the main characters come out of their shells to protect themselves, their children. I would save some money and catch this one as a matinee.