55 Steps

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

55 Steps tells the very important story of Eleanor Riese and her personal and legal struggle to gain control over her medical treatment and her life. Helena Bonham Carter is amazing as Eleanor. The movie is based on Eleanor's legal case and the efforts of her lawyers but is really about Eleanor's growing friendship with her lawyer Colette Hughes, played by Hilary Swank in a typically strong performance.

Reading the synopsis of this movie, my expectation walking into this movie is full blown court action like The Lincoln Lawyer or something like that. After the end credit rolled, I understand why it only got 6.9 rating on IMDB.

If you're in the mood of court action movie,then this movie will not satisfy your need. This movie focused on the relationship between a lawyer and her client, how a retarded person in public's eye can change the life of a white collar. That's where this movie shines. A simple gesture of appreciation and caring can change a person's life and this movie doesn't fail to show both points. Personally, the outcome i got from 55 Steps is to never judge anyone based on anything for such a simple person on the outside can have a great personality and mind on the inside.

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?