Because of her early roles and easy beauty, Rose Byrne has often been relegated to lite comedies, but “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You” changed that perception and got her an Oscar nom (my review). This role will further solidify her dramatic cred. She plays an unhoused woman, who’s been living in her 1991 Camry. After it gets towed, she spends the rest of the film trying to retrieve it. Byrne creates a character that’s feisty and determined, which makes her less sympathetic, but still deserving. Director Stephanie Laing has surrounded her with wonderful supporting performances from Octavia Spencer, Demi Lovato and Dominic Sessa (who’s more gentle than he is in “Tony”). The Xmas song by Ariana DeBose is a magnificent moment of repose. While it’s based on a true story, it’s hard to believe that she managed to survive as long as she did. Byrne’s portrayal makes the woman hard to like, but her ultimate realization is genuinely affecting. 3.5 out of 5.0 stars
