Confrontations between ”crude” parent and ”sophisticated” child have long been a dramatic commonplace, but both actresses seem hell-bent to get to the core of their characters.

Aided by strong performances, Hackford keeps the suspense simmering nicely until a botched courtroom showdown... Interesting, though, to see Stephen King in the guise of feminist.

It's rare to see a pop best seller come out this well in the movies.

This is not one of Stephen King's most absorbing tales, but it's saved from itself -- just -- by another outstanding performance from Kathy Bates.