Rose Byrne delivers a compelling performance in “Tow,” a film based on the true story of a woman living out of her car in Seattle, navigating homelessness and a frustrating legal battle to reclaim her vehicle. The film, which premiered to positive reviews, showcases Byrne’s ability to portray complex, often unlikeable characters with nuance and depth.
Byrne plays Amanda Ogle, a veteran technician who finds herself homeless and reliant on a beat-up 1991 Toyota Camry as her sole refuge. The film follows Amanda’s year-long struggle after her car is impounded by Kaplan Towing, accruing a $273 fee she desperately tries to pay while simultaneously starting a new job. The narrative, described as an “elongated anecdote,” avoids a straightforward explanation of how Amanda arrived at this point, instead focusing on her present circumstances and defiant spirit.
The actress, who received critical acclaim for her role in 2025’s “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You,” earning awards including a Silver Bear for Best Leading Performance, a Golden Globe, and an Independent Spirit Award, brings a sharp edge to the character. According to a recent profile in The Hollywood Reporter, Byrne has consistently chosen roles that challenge conventional notions of likability, from her early work in Australian independent films to her comedic turns in “Bridesmaids” and “Neighbors.”
“Tow” depicts Amanda’s attempts to navigate a system seemingly designed to keep her down. She seeks assistance at a church homeless shelter overseen by Barbara, played by Octavia Spencer, and encounters a diverse community of individuals, including Nova (Demi Lovato) and Denise (Ariana DeBose). She too pursues legal recourse, representing herself in court and initially winning her case, only to discover that Kaplan Towing has already sold her car at auction.
The film touches on Amanda’s past struggles with alcoholism, revealing she had her first drink at age 11, potentially as a response to childhood abuse. However, the film refrains from providing a comprehensive backstory, suggesting that broader economic forces and her own personality contributed to her situation. The narrative emphasizes Amanda’s resilience and refusal to be defined by her circumstances, even as it acknowledges her flaws.
Amanda eventually connects with Kevin (Dominic Sessa), a nonprofit lawyer who assists her in a renewed legal effort. The film portrays a challenging environment, including confrontations with a resident sociopath at the shelter, played by Lea Delaria. Despite these obstacles, Amanda continues to fight for her car, which represents more than just transportation; it symbolizes her dignity and independence.
While the film’s strength lies in its unflinching portrayal of Amanda and her struggles, some critics have noted that the storyline lacks a definitive resolution. The film, released by A24, concludes without fully exploring the implications of Amanda’s ongoing battle, leaving the audience to contemplate the systemic issues that contribute to homelessness and the challenges faced by those attempting to rebuild their lives.
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