There is nothing new about the premise for Smashed, a drama about a couple’s battle with alcoholism, but the execution is anything but conventional. With a truly tender touch, director and co-writer James Ponsoldt injects a refreshing energy into the film, which builds upon real-life experiences of co-writer Susan Burke’s own battles with alcoholism. What really makes this film stand out, however, is a breathtaking performance by Mary Elizabeth Winstead that is truly one of the best I’ve seen in years.
October 11, 2012