Gyllenhaal launches Oscar bid with Sherrybaby

Director: Laurie Collyer

Cast: Maggie Gyllenhaal, Brad William Henke, Giancarlo Esposito, Ryan Simkins

Cert: 18

There could be an Oscar nomination awaiting Gyllenhaal after this magnificently gritty and realistic, yet warm-hearted, performance as an ex-con trying to re-establish herself in the life of her six-year-old daughter.

The story is about starting over in the face of daunting odds, yet it does not pander to sickly-sweet sentiment since neither Gyllenhaal nor director Collyer shies from the tough, unsympathetic side of the mother.

Everything is brutally realistic and yet we want everything to turn up hearts and flowers.

Star Rating: 4/5