The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio 2005

In the serene town of Defiance, Ohio, housewife Evelyn Ryan (Laura Dern) boldly navigated the challenges of raising her husband Kelly and their large family of ten children through a unique method—participating in jingle-writing contests. Yet, this was not without its struggles; Kelly’s inability to adequately provide for the family, exacerbated by what seemed to be alcoholism and profound self-doubt, weighed heavily on Evelyn. After a tragic car accident extinguished his dreams of becoming a singer, he was left with a shattered voice and a cruel disposition.

As Evelyn flourished creatively, she amassed a variety of prizes that included both useful and whimsical items, ranging from a washer and dryer set to a pony. This success, however, bred resentment in Kelly, who felt increasingly threatened by her accomplishments. His criticism often turned destructive, damaging her hard-won prizes, while their children were caught in a difficult position between their loyalty to their mother and their father’s abusive behavior.

Despite these adversities, Evelyn showcased remarkable resilience, using her cleverness to soothe Kelly’s anger and minimize the damage he inflicted. As their older children began to grow independent, pursuing education and athletic endeavors, the family found some relief from their burdens.

Evelyn’s sense of isolation was profound, a result of the relentless demands of childcare and the lack of mental stimulation in her small town. However, she found solace in a group of like-minded housewives who shared her interest in creative endeavors, forming a bond that would become crucial as she faced a new challenge: discovering that Kelly had secretly taken out a second mortgage on their home, leaving them on the verge of foreclosure.

In an effort to secure their future, the children earnestly prayed for their mother to win a Dr Pepper-sponsored contest. Their prayers were answered when Evelyn triumphed, winning the necessary funds to pay off the mortgage and safeguard their home.

Years later, after Kelly’s passing, Evelyn encountered a surprising gesture of redemption; he had established a fund from his pension checks specifically for her, acknowledging his failings as a husband and father. The film concludes by showcasing the Ryan children as adults, profoundly influenced by the sacrifices and unwavering strength of their mother.