Won't Back Down

More anti-union propaganda masquerading as entertainment.

A straight-talking, partisan account about the failings of a broken system and a band of women who argued for better for their children.

It is well meant, undoubtedly about something that matters, and it bends over backwards not to trash the teachers' unions gratuitously, but amid the attempts at gritty reality, I found the happy-ending imperative unconvincing.

The forces of unionism are mainly pilloried as lazy sell-outs, which is a pity, because a lot of other tangy issues come into play here.

Focuses on solving problems rather than assigning blame.

A film of bumper sticker emotions, rather than ideas that might actually be helpful.

This is a gripping story, with only a few moments of awkwardness as policy details and pros and cons are explained.

Gyllenhaal and Davis make a good team. The former is impulsive and enthusiastic, displaying an undefeatable determination. Davis is cautious and reserved, providing a balance and check to her partner in change.