55 Steps

Inevitably, some will avoid a film about mental illness and patients' rights for fear of it being "worthy" or "depressing". And, sure, this is undoubtedly the kind of story that used to be packaged for "disease of the week" telemovies. What elevates "55 Steps" above that lowly status is an extraordinary performance by Helena Bonham Carter as Eleanor Riese. It's not only a detailed, sensitive and touching portrayal of a woman with mental illness, but a smart, masterful exercise in calibrating a performance that balances both drama and comedy so that a difficult and potentially alienating subject becomes entertaining and ultimately uplifting. It takes an actor with incredible skill and range to pull off such a feat, and Bonham Carter is one of only a handful who could do it. That in the past few years she's also convincingly played roles as disparate as Elizabeth Taylor and Madame Thenardier demonstrates what a remarkable actor HBC has become. But this may be her best performance yet. Well worth seeing.

Very timely and touching movie which is based on a true story. Timely release due to current events in the media. Enjoyed Helena and Hilary's portrayals of Eleanor and Colette. Hope movie is shown to a wider audience in the future.

55 Steps is an inspiring legal drama about a victim of psychiatric "care" seeking legislative protection from forced medication on behalf of the mentally ill. Hillary Swank, who is always great to watch, does not disappoint as the patient rights advocacy lawyer fighting for a just cause, but I was pleasantly surprised by how believable the often-typecast Helena Bonham Carter's dynamic and nuanced performance was as real-life plaintiff Eleanor Riese. This film is sure to be underrated but you definitely shouldn't miss it if you or anyone you know has experienced being inside a mental hospital.

I watched this movie with more than 65 Patients Rights Advocates at our annual CAMHPRA meeting. We thank you all for making the film, it reaffirms our passion for the struggle of Patient Rights and their Civil Rights The Actors should be given awards and in my opinion big abrazos for protraying Eleanor and Collette and Mort (RIP we miss you so much). and for bringing to light an issue that everyone takes for granted. We know the battle was long and heart breaking but we thank you for the end results. We may not always win but when we win our clients win big. Please watch the film. Please support the mentally ill, we all break at one time or another and we need to support each other. I highly recommend this film Gloria h/fresno

This movie is nothing less than a gem. What makes it so compelling is that although the issues are clearly and boldly presented, we never lose our connection to the individuals portrayed. The balance achieved is rare. Also, Eleanor and Colette are such different women, but the evolution of their relationship is believable and astutely rendered. Above all, how wonderful was it to see a story about generosity, compassion and high ideals?