I just saw the movie, "The Prizewinner of Defiance, Ohio" today. I loved this movie and just had to spread the word. It's based on a true story. I bought the movie on Pay Per View on Dish Network so I'm sure it's out on DVD and in stores by now. If you have Dish Network order it quickly because it's only showing on one channel.

The movie stars Julianne Moore and Woody Harrelson. They are a married couple with 10 children and the story takes place during the 1950's era. Moore's character, Mrs. Ryan enters Jingle Contests to supplement her husband's income.

I thought this would be just a movie about a stereotypical houswife but I was very wrong. Mr. Ryan is a drinker and his wife is a remarkable woman who triumps in adversity and raises ten equally remarkable children.

It shows the strength and grace of a strong woman dedicated to her children and resigned to her life with a less than ideal mate. She had a career and gave it up for marriage and children. The movie is inspirational because rather than wallow in anger and self-pity, she remains positive and is the much needed source of love, encouragement and stability for her children.

While it shows a less than perfect marriage, there is not a great deal of physical violence but there is some verbal abuse. My 9 year old watched it with me. He noted all the sacrifices the Mom made for her family. He felt that she deserved a better husband who appreciated her. He also mentioned what a difference one good parent made in the lives of those ten children. Then he told me what a great Mom I am and how much he appreciates everything I do for him and gave me a hug and kiss.

I don't want to give away too many details but we watched it several times today and never got sick of it.

This is definitely a sleeper hit in the making. It's wholesome and inspirational. It would be a great gift for Mother's Day.

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