YMMV / Ms. 45

• Alternate Character Interpretation: As mentioned on the main page, it's unclear how much of what's going on is real and how much is filtered through Thana's mental breakdown. One interpretation is that Thana's killing spree is really a dream that she is having as she mentally struggles with the trauma of her ordeal.
• Jerkass Woobie: In spite of her crimes, it's practically impossible not to feel sympathy for Thana.
• Nightmare Fuel: The rape scenes are brief but understandably gut-wrenching, with the camera focused on Thana's pained facial expressions. It really highlights how it feels for someone, especially a woman, to be a victim of this horrible crime.
• She Really Can Act: Zoë Lund may not have had an extensive acting resume, but her powerful performance as Thana is one you won't be forgetting anytime soon. Especially so when you consider she only says one word - "sister" - throughout the whole thing.
• Tear Jerker: Thana is a walking tear-jerker. Not only is she forced to endure a terrible ordeal no one should ever have to suffer, but it's pretty clear that beneath her abrasive and angry exterior she's hurting deep down as a result of her trauma. Her gradual self-destruction and death are presented as merely the tragic culmination of an already tragic story. It's even worse when you consider her actress' own issues with drug addiction, self-loathing, and isolation.
• Values Resonance: Especially in the post-#MeToo world, the film's message about the psychological trauma brought on by rape remains as relevant as ever.
• Vindicated by History: It was despised by critics upon its initial release, but is nowadays hailed as a classic of independent cinema, with its feminist themes and Zoë Lund's brave performance receiving particular acclaim.

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