This black comedy may be based on a true story, but it was new to me despite only happening eight years ago in 2017. Emilia Jones plays Reality, a young woman whose big brain and big dreams want more than her little hometown life in Texas.
Growing up, Reality’s views were shaped by discussions with her father, especially around geopolitical topics and Islam. She enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 2010, working as a linguist. I’m not sure how close Jones’ character is to the real-life Winner, but the on-screen Winner is a feisty misfit who “wasn’t trying to be Snowden or anything” but also can’t sit by and watch as higher-ups hide things in dark corners and under rugs.
Winner’s parents are played by Connie Britton and Zach Galifianakis, Galifianakis playing her father, Ron, with his usual offbeat vibe. Written by Susanna Fogel, who also penned films such as Booksmart and The Spy Who Dumped Me, Winner follows the same indie film, campy vibe. It’s one of those movies that feels like it could easily be overlooked, but it shouldn’t be. This cast puts their heart into this film, and it shows.
(103 min.)
—Anna Starkey
This article appears in Aug 7-17, 2025.