Watch out for ‘Freeheld’

Listen, I hate to be doing this so early, but you would have to say that Peter Sollett’s Freeheld can’t help but trigger Oscar discussions. As early as last October, I was on the airwaves in Dallas boldly proclaiming that Julianne Moore was going to take home the Oscar for Still Alice and if she hadn’t won last year she would almost be a lock to win this year. It will take a massive upset for her not to be nominated for Freeheld. If ever a movie was timely, and we all know how the Academy loves timely films, then this it.

Freeheld is based on a documentary that already has won an Oscar. It reveals the story of Laurel Hester, a New York cop diagnosed with lung cancer, who was trying to pass on her pension benefits to her female partner. Moore plays the lead role of Hester and Page is the younger woman who is facing an uncertain future. So Moore is dealing with a terminal illness, but she is also dealing a very timely cause in a film based on true events. I can actually see the Academy voters doing a happy dance in an anticipation of this picture. Just check out the trailer!


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No, I’m not sobbing. I just have really bad allergies. I need to have a second. AGH! Okay!? I think that it’s safe to say that Freeheld will be a major factor during the awards season. I think it will be tough for Julianne Moore to win once again this year because the last time that was done was by Katherine Hepburn in 1967/68.

Dewey Singleton - Film Critic
Dewey Singleton - Film Critic
I'm a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association and have been doing reviews for many years. My views on film are often heard in markets such as Atlanta, Houston, and satellite radio. My wife often tolerates my obsession for all things film related and two sons are at an age now where 'Trolls' is way cooler than dad. Follow me on twitter @mrsingleton.