Riding in Cars With Boys (2001)

(Conneticut and New York; 1961-1986)
IMDb

Drew Barrymore gives an ambitious and convincing performance in this film adaptation of Beverly Donofiro's memoir of the same title. At the age of 15 Beverly becomes pregnant by her will meaning but minimally capable boyfriend Ray (Steve Zahn). Against her better judgement but in accordance with the social mores of the time, the two get married. They struggle to raise their son Jason (played by a number of different actors), with Beverly trying largely in vain to pursue a higher education, and Ray not always showing up for work, and eventually becoming an heroin addict. When Beverly forces Ray out of their lives after he is unable to overcome his addiction, the relationship between her and her son becomes even more complicated then it was before. The two become co-dependent and as destructive to one another as they are helpful. An affecting film ably helmed by Penny Marshell. James Woods plays Beverly's traditionalist, policeman father.