This film is a refreshing departure from the usual over-produced, over-hyped, and often absurd fodder fed to us by the industry. It portrays real people and real relationships, ugly warts and all. I agree with the reviewer who states the main character's turnaround could have been explored and portrayed more in-depth, but this does not detract from the story's overall impact. While the concept of the human spirit somehow finding a way to rise above adversity has been played out countless times and in countless ways, it somehow never gets old. Sorry for rambling...great cast, great acting, great music--go see it.