This is my kind of movie...I like melodrama as long as it's executed well. Seems like alot of ppl instantly equate melodramatic with bad, but I don't. I agree there were a couple parts that walk the line of going over-the-top (some of the sex/heroin scenes), but it comes back down and stays in control. There are also some scenes that could have easily gone over the top, but don't. Loved Laura Dern's character, made me think of my mom alot. Not really the circumstances as much as the nature of her character. I doubt she'll win awards but I'll be rooting for her.