The Unforgivable (2021)

Ruth Slater (Sandra Bullock) is released from prison after serving a sentence for a violent crime and re-enters a society that refuses to forgive her past.

Based on the 2009 British TV series, Unforgiven, THE UNFORGIVABLE is an engaging crime drama that is often deeply moving and intense. I was fully engaged with this one. Sandra Bullock puts in an excellent performance and it’s great to see her back on the screen. And the way the history of the event that got Ruth jailed is revealed in flashbacks is agonisingly effective.

THE UNFORGIVABLE is well-paced with characters, especially Ruth’s, developed carefully and believably.

The central theme — how ex-convicts are treated when they are released from prison — is an important one and the challenges are explored with empathy and potency. Yes, it’s a bit contrived. But who cares? It’s entertaining and unnerving.

(In cinemas in Australia – check your movie guide for your local show times. You can also watch it on Netflix.)