Jennifer Lopez’s Enuogh Is the 2000s’ Greatest Stealth Masterpiece

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As a thriller fan, I think about the 2000s and while movies like Oldboy and The Machinist are rightfully celebrated, so much else gets lost. Honestly, the decade doesn’t really have a reputation for great thrillers, which is a shame! It means some really good ones, like a thriller Jennifer Lopez did back in 2002, just aren’t remembered. It’s a missed opportunity, because there are definitely hidden gems from that time if you look for them.

The movie Enough is based on Anna Quindlen’s novel Black and Blue, and tells the difficult story of a woman who finally fights back after enduring abuse. While it received largely negative reviews upon release – currently holding a 22% score on Rotten Tomatoes – many viewers consider it a powerful and realistic film that deserves to be seen, even calling it a masterpiece.

Enough Is a Familiar Narrative With a Twist

The novel Enough tells the story of Slim, a waitress who falls for the charming and wealthy Mitch, who seems to offer her the life she’s always wanted. But their relationship turns dark when Slim discovers Mitch has been repeatedly unfaithful, and he becomes abusive, controlling her through threats and violence. Fearing for her safety, Slim flees with her young daughter, relying on a network of supportive friends to help her escape and remain hidden.

Even with a popular actress like Jennifer Lopez starring in it, many fans dismissed Enough as just another story about domestic abuse. This assessment isn’t entirely wrong, and critics often pointed to the film’s lack of originality as a reason for its poor reception.

Some critics have called the film Enough exploitative, arguing that it sensationalizes domestic abuse by focusing on revenge. However, many viewers feel it powerfully portrays the fear and helplessness of those experiencing abuse and failing to receive help from the legal system.

Many viewers consider Enough a hidden gem, and praise it for its powerful themes. People connect with the film’s message of female empowerment and its realistic portrayal of the anger and risks faced by those who speak out against abuse. While it’s not perfect, the film is widely respected for honestly addressing a very difficult subject.

Enough Remains a 2000s Thriller Underrated Gem

The thriller Enough, released in the early 2000s, isn’t well-remembered largely because critics didn’t think highly of it. It was seen as a standard survival story lacking emotional resonance. The film’s many characters and subplots contributed to a confusing narrative that overshadowed the main idea. However, despite these flaws, fans have been willing to overlook unanswered questions, captivated by the film’s exciting and entertaining moments.

While not perfect, the film has its strengths, as both critics and general audiences agree. Despite a strong performance by Lopez, some characters and subplots feel underdeveloped or unnecessary. Viewers have particularly responded to the empowering story of a woman taking control and fighting back against adversity, though the story could have been more emotionally complex and detailed.

While not a classic, the movie Enough is worth revisiting, particularly for thriller fans who appreciate films that bravely address challenging real-world issues. Whether it’s considered a great film is debatable, but it’s commendable that Enough tackles such difficult and complex topics.

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Unveiling Enough: Test Your Thriller Knowledge on Abuse and Revenge
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2026-02-05 02:36