For each positive step made by the film's main characters, there are glimpses of potential child molesters at bus stops, and a different peer pressure nudging addicts toward the needle and alcoholics toward another bottle. In addition, Dixon and Leder include an unexpected, shocking moment that could very well be embraced by cynics whose code dictates that they look out for only No. 1. By focusing primarily on three characters with individual needs, it discovers empathy within their imperfection. That's an original thought. It stakes out new territory by recognizing that everybody makes mistakes, then paints forgiveness as a valuable commodity not easily given.
Consequences are forever in the shadows.
But it also asks viewers to look inward and feel more, and that's enough.