In 1983, Kenny Waters was convicted of the murder of Katharina Brow in Ayer, Massachusetts. In the 18 years that followed, Kenny's sister, Betty Anne Waters, dedicated her life to fighting for his freedom. Determined to free her brother from what she believed a wrongful conviction, Betty Anne went through college and law school in order to eventually exonerate her brother. This remarkable true story of personal sacrifice is illustrated in Tony Goldwyn's ""Conviction.""
The film's plot, as adapted by screenwriter Pamela Gray, jumps between scenes from before and after Kenny's conviction. Many of these scenes are short, revealing just enough to convey the necessary points. Scenes of Kenny and Betty Anne as children illustrate the development of their close relationship. Raised by a neglectful mother, they frequently got themselves in trouble until their separation into foster homes. Betty Anne's separation from her husband is implied only by a scene of them arguing and his later absence from her household, leaving much to the interpretation of the audience.
Given the inspirational nature of the story, the movie could easily slip into the category of a Hallmark channel tear-jerker. Goldwyn, however, refrains from this by keeping the effects simple. The audience is neither distracted by dramatic music nor left impatient from drawn-out scenes. Instead, Goldwyn lets the actors bring the story to life, with Hilary Swank and Sam Rockwell putting on commendable performances as the Waters siblings.
Swank portrays the delicate resolve of Betty Anne with depth and emotion. For much of the film, her character has a quiet strength. Her unwavering loyalty to her brother and her belief in his innocence keeps her forging through every obstacle imaginable. Although Betty Anne is skilled at maintaining her composure, she is not immune to letting her emotions get to her, particularly when it comes to family. These moments in the film allow Swank to display her phenomenal acting talent.
The strained smile she puts on for her sons as she sends them off with her ex-husband could make any mother's heart ache, and her livid reaction to questions of her brother's innocence resonates with anyone who has had to defend a family member.
Rockwell, whose character is less prominently featured than Swank's, also delivers a realistic performance in his presentation of the pompous and wild Kenny. In the various scenes where Kenny loses his temper, Rockwell conveys anger so believably the audience is inclined to believe that his character is capable of murder. However, Kenny's love for his family is evidenced by his uncontrollable excitement when Betty Anne passes the bar exam.
Supporting actresses Minnie Driver and Juliette Lewis add to the already exemplary acting in ""Conviction."" Minnie Driver plays Betty Anne's friend, Abra, whose sarcasm provides an occasional reprieve from the intensity of the film. Lewis portrays a witness, and though her appearance in the film is minimal, she is perfect for the ditsy role.
The story behind this film is already powerful, but when paired with Goldwyn's brilliant directing and a strong cast, it becomes all the more compelling. ""Conviction"" reminds us of the rewards of hard work and the power of familial love.
