Screenplay by Paul Haggis
Based upon stories from Rope Burns by F. X. Toole
Maggie is a scrappy and spunky fighter. Based on what we’re told about her physical appearance, it seems like she’s taken some hits too, which pulls at our sense of intrigue.
Note how her eyes stay fixed on Frankie. This suggests intent, focus and deliberateness. This tells us that, despite being unkempt and a clear underdog, Maggie is somebody who’s ready to fight for something — and we’re ready to follow her because we see that tenacity.