Citizen Ruth

Main Plot

"Citizen Ruth," directed by Alexander Payne, is a satirical comedy-drama that explores the polarizing issue of abortion in America. The film follows a homeless, drug-addicted woman who becomes pregnant and finds herself at the center of a fierce battle between pro-life and pro-choice activists. After being arrested for endangering her unborn child, she is offered a chance to reduce her sentence if she agrees to have an abortion. This proposition thrusts her into the national spotlight, as both sides of the abortion debate attempt to use her as a symbol for their causes. The narrative unfolds as each group tries to sway her decision, offering various incentives and manipulating her situation to serve their agendas. The film cleverly critiques the extremism and hypocrisy often present in such debates, highlighting how individuals can become pawns in larger ideological conflicts. Through its dark humor and sharp social commentary, "Citizen Ruth" challenges viewers to consider the complexities and personal dimensions of the abortion issue, while also examining the broader societal tendency to exploit vulnerable individuals for political gain. The film ultimately raises questions about autonomy, choice, and the often absurd nature of ideological warfare.

Characters

• Laura Dern plays Ruth Stoops, a troubled woman caught in a political battle over abortion rights, highlighting the absurdities and extremes of both sides.
• Swoosie Kurtz plays Diane Siegler, an activist who supports Ruth in her legal battle, highlighting the film's exploration of reproductive rights and the clash between opposing advocacy groups.
• Mary Kay Place plays Gail Stoney, a fervent pro-life activist who takes in Ruth, attempting to sway her decision amidst the abortion debate.

Ending Explained

In the movie 'Citizen Ruth,' the ending revolves around the character Ruth Stoops, a homeless and pregnant woman caught in the middle of the abortion debate. Throughout the film, Ruth is manipulated by both pro-life and pro-choice groups, each trying to use her as a symbol for their cause. As the story concludes, Ruth finds herself at a clinic, with both sides eagerly awaiting her decision. In a pivotal moment, Ruth, who has been largely indifferent to the ideological battle surrounding her, decides to take control of her own fate. She sneaks out of the clinic and escapes, taking the money that both groups had offered her to sway her decision. This act of defiance highlights Ruth's desire for autonomy and her rejection of being a pawn in the political struggle. The ending is significant as it underscores the film's satirical take on the abortion debate, illustrating how individuals can be overshadowed by larger ideological conflicts. Ruth's escape signifies her reclaiming agency over her life, emphasizing the personal over the political. The film concludes with Ruth walking away, leaving her ultimate decision about the pregnancy ambiguous, thus maintaining focus on her newfound independence rather than the resolution of the debate.