“Nobody knows more about what that medicine does to me than I do,” psychiatric facility patient Eleanor Riese (Helena Bonham Carter) informs her lawyer, Colette Hughes, about her medications. “Tell me I’m not right.” As the trailer for “55 Steps” reveals, Colette (Hilary Swank) definitely can’t argue with that.
Described as a “very explosive patient,” Eleanor has been faithfully documenting how each drug she’s been prescribed affects her. She’s fighting for competent mental patients’ rights, specifically their legally having a say in their own treatments and medications. Colette is appointed to the case and the duo work together on a class action suit. The odds are against them, but Eleanor and Colette are steadfast in their cause. “If you win my case, you make other people’s lives better,” Eleanor encourages Colette.
“55 Steps” is directed by Bille August (“The House of the Spirits”). It’s based on a true story.
Bonham Carter most recently appeared in “Ocean’s Eight.” Next, she’ll portray Princess Margaret on the third season of “The Crown.” She received Oscar nods for “The Wings of the Dove” and “The King’s Speech.”
Swank’s recent credits include “Trust” and “Logan Lucky.” You can catch her next in Elizabeth Chomko’s family drama “What They Had,” out October 19. She took home Oscars for “Million Dollar Baby” and “Boys Don’t Cry.”
“55 Steps” will be released on VOD October 16. It hits select theaters November 16.