The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio
Seen it?2005 | 99 min | Drama
Weeknight Watchearly ratingWhy it’s a Weeknight Watch
With soft box office, it's a mixed bag. Fine if it's on; don't plan your night around it.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for anyone who loves a strong drama. If you loved Quiz Show or Ferrari, start here.
- The mood
- Thoughtful and character-driven.
- The pace
- Takes its time with its characters, at 1 hr 39 min.
- What might put you off
- Nothing much for most grown-ups.
A Midwestern housewife supports her large family by entering contests for ad slogans sponsored by consumer product companies, while dealing with abuse from her alcoholic husband. Based on a true story.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsSolid
60% on Rotten Tomatoes, 58 on Metacritic
- AudiencesNot counted
Not measured yet: not enough ratings
- AwardsNot counted
No major awards or nominations
- Box office & staying powerBelow par
$689K worldwide; still draws a steady audience long after release
- Buzz & cultural impactSolid
About 212K people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
More like this
Quiz Show
Friday Night FlickAnother critically acclaimed true-story drama.
Being the Ricardos
Sunday Safe BetAnother true-story drama, and a safe bet for a quiet night.
Ferrari
Saturday SpecialAnother true-story drama, and a Saturday Special.
It's a Wonderful Life Friday Night FlickAnother critically acclaimed drama.
Dead Man's Wire Saturday SpecialAnother true-story drama, and a Saturday Special.
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Cast & crew
Directed by Jane Anderson
- Julianne MooreEvelyn Ryan
- Woody HarrelsonKelly Ryan
- Laura DernDortha Schaefer
- Trevor MorganBruce Ryan
- Ellary PorterfieldTuff Ryan
- Simon ReynoldsRay the Milkman
- Robert ClarkDick Ryan
- Michael SeaterBub Ryan at 15 yrs
- Jordan TodoseyTuff Ryan at 9 yrs
- Jack MurrayRog Ryan at 17 yrs