I loved that this movie takes a deep look at the dynamics of an average American family floundering in a bad economy. The economic downturn effects everyone in a family and not just the bread winner. I could totally relate to the mother who is trying to take care of her kids, her home, her husband, and then also have to work long hours for a measly paycheck. The stress of working for so little can tear a family apart and this movie shows what happens when money is a constant issue: parents can't provide their kids with the type of care they need and a married couple can't nurture their relationship when they are being pulled in different directions by a multitude of responsibilities. Slowly but surely the strain takes over and frustrations are taken out on the ones you love. It's a tough thing to look at, but it happens every day in this country and I applaud the director for showing that reality in America right now. Marriage and children is a dream for most people and the current economic climate make it nearly impossible to live comfortably and properly care for your family - especially for the middle class. The director tackles an extremely topical and significant subject and does it in an astute way. This is not just a typical action male-centric film about blue-collar life. It's an in-depth look at how the blue- collar lifestyle can cause resentments, envy, anger, and dissatisfaction.
