I found this movie to be quite disturbing, which prompted me to research it's real life basis.  This is not the kind of movie you go into expecting good feelings or happy endings - there is none to be found. But as a vehicle for showing raw human emotion with all of the stark seediness people are capable of, the movie was quite effective. The acting was extremely well-done. Be warned, if you plan to watch this you should get your mind right beforehand because there just aren't any likable characters and the subject matter is downright depressing. While watching the movie I kept thinking how much I disliked the characters. Afterwards,  I researched the real life story of Ruth Ellis and then it all made sense. Ruth had a hard life from the start and simply seemed incapable of leaving behind her bad influences. I found myself admiring the real life Ruth Ellis for her boldly honest admission of what she did without trying to avoid the consequences. For those considering watching this movie, don't expect to come away liking Rupert Everett or Miranda Richardson. Do admire them both for well-acted performances. I would suggest reading up on the real life Ruth Ellis before you watch the movie. She had a truly tragic life characterized by abuse and human weakness, but she had the self-awareness in the end to admit to her wrongs.  I've read some reviews of this movie that gratuitously point to this story as an example of how the 1950s weren't so great after all. I can't stand such reviewers. Tragedy exists in every age and I have little use for people that take pleasure in tearing down positive ideals. Don't watch the movie looking for reasons to bash the 1950s. Watch it to see raw, real-life human weakness and the damage it can do.