ALL WE HAD

Cinemavixion Review

Katie Holmes' directorial debut, "All We Had," offers a poignant look at the resilience of a mother-daughter relationship against a backdrop of economic hardship. Stefania LaVie Owen delivers a compelling performance as Ruthie, a teenager navigating the instability of their nomadic existence. Holmes herself embodies Rita, a mother driven by fierce love and a desperate will to survive, even when faced with impossible choices. The film excels in its portrayal of found family, particularly through the heartwarming dynamic with Richard Kind's diner owner and Eve Lindley's memorable turn as Pam, a transgender waitress whose friendship becomes a vital anchor for Ruthie. While the narrative touches on themes familiar to the coming-of-age genre, the genuine emotional core and strong performances elevate it. "All We Had" is a tender exploration of hope and the enduring strength found in human connection, even in the most uncertain circumstances.