Ruby in Paradise
October Films | Release Date: November 5, 1993
7.8
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 30 Ratings
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10
JacobTurnerJun 9, 2021
Victor Nunez’s 1993 Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize-winner is a recontextualization of Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey which puts Ashley Judd’s protagonist in a position of great disadvantage. However, Ruby In Paradise proves that aVictor Nunez’s 1993 Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize-winner is a recontextualization of Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey which puts Ashley Judd’s protagonist in a position of great disadvantage. However, Ruby In Paradise proves that a woman who has the courage to believe in herself and the women around her may not achieve all of her dreams, but can still find paradise nonetheless. The contemporary themes of self-reliance in this film are a necessary invocation for Ruby, who finds herself in a dead-end, out of season beach town in Northwest Florida. Through the relationships she creates, Ruby finds that she can be independent and powerful, while also appreciating the simplicity of small-time success. For its persistent anti-consumerism and feminist undertones, Ruby In Paradise is one of 1993’s best films, and should not be forgotten.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
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10
NanaYJun 17, 2021
Despite being released in 1993, Ruby In Paradise continues to dissect issues still prevalent today. Ruby Lee Gissing, played by Ashley Judd, moves to Panama City, Florida to navigate her emergence into young adulthood. Written and directed byDespite being released in 1993, Ruby In Paradise continues to dissect issues still prevalent today. Ruby Lee Gissing, played by Ashley Judd, moves to Panama City, Florida to navigate her emergence into young adulthood. Written and directed by Victor Nunez, the viewers get a taste of everyday life through Ruby’s eyes which provides an intimate look at self-discovery that is hardly ever displayed in films, especially for young women. Ruby in Paradise continues to stand the test of time because of its empowering depiction of what it truly means to find yourself. I really enjoyed watching a film that celebrated the beauty of everyday life, the simplicity and sincerity of the film are what makes it timeless. Ruby in paradise is a film I would highly recommend to anyone who wants to embark on their own independent journey in Ruby’s shoes.… Expand
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8
janettasher1Jun 8, 2021
Victor Nuñez’s film Ruby in Paradise has gone above and beyond to make this a respected piece of artwork. Despite its peak in 1993, winning the Grand Jury acclamation at the Sundance Film Festival, its themes and cinematography are simplyVictor Nuñez’s film Ruby in Paradise has gone above and beyond to make this a respected piece of artwork. Despite its peak in 1993, winning the Grand Jury acclamation at the Sundance Film Festival, its themes and cinematography are simply timeless. Ashley Judd’s breakout role as Ruby Lee Gissing, showcased her effortless acting that is incomparable. She flees to a small beach town in Panama City, Florida, with the intentions of a freer and fulfilling life to aid her ambitions. Nunez’s skillful organic cinematography grants the film the opportunity to effectively add depth to Ruby's character development while trying to independently navigate through the struggles of life. This film is plentiful with themes that unapologetically defy the stereotypes that limit women. I can't help but appreciate Nuñez’s carefully crafted hardships that are the turmoil for Rubys powerful character development. The fascinating juxtaposition of idealism and realism presented throughout perfectly grasp the raw essence navigating the foreign grounds of freedom in the real world. This film successfully immerses the audience through the concepts of womanhood, identity, and human behavior. This captivating cinematic experience is something that I cannot recommend enough!… Expand
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10
JavariBrownJun 21, 2021
The film Ruby in Paradise serves as a standard for many to stick to their morals and trust themselves to put in the work. A young Ashley Judd in her breakout film leaves her mark portraying Ruby Lee Gissing going through the ringer known asThe film Ruby in Paradise serves as a standard for many to stick to their morals and trust themselves to put in the work. A young Ashley Judd in her breakout film leaves her mark portraying Ruby Lee Gissing going through the ringer known as life. While she has people around her to keep her leveled like her good friend Rochelle, or her boyfriend Mike, or at some point her co-workers there is still doubt that she may have to do more to get what she ultimately wants. An incredible film that reinforces many of the ideas life serves to many of us.… Expand
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9
nicomediJun 15, 2021
With its element of naturalism, Ruby in Paradise is a gem of a film that translates perfectly to modern culture. With its focus on the character of Ruby Lee Gissing (Ashley Judd), Nunez takes audiences on a journey of Ruby’s self-discoveryWith its element of naturalism, Ruby in Paradise is a gem of a film that translates perfectly to modern culture. With its focus on the character of Ruby Lee Gissing (Ashley Judd), Nunez takes audiences on a journey of Ruby’s self-discovery that paired with Judd’s acting is a wonderfully masterful decision that communicates the elegantly organic nature of this film. Using Ruby’s character, Nunez firmly communicates the power of the female identity while also subtly sending a message to the modern consumerist culture. As a message of personal growth, this film transcends a coming-of-age story and voices a call for all to hear.… Expand
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10
jenniferlyng1Jun 17, 2021
The film Ruby in Paradise shows that director Victor Nunez was ahead of his time. With themes of independence, feminism, and hardship that are extremely prevalent today, he is able to create an inspirational and heartwarming depiction of aThe film Ruby in Paradise shows that director Victor Nunez was ahead of his time. With themes of independence, feminism, and hardship that are extremely prevalent today, he is able to create an inspirational and heartwarming depiction of a young woman’s first experience with independence. The film follows Ruby Lee Gissing, played by Ashley Judd, as she travels to Panama City, Florida in order to change the course of her life. We see her grow through several seasons, and work to find happiness while dealing with her own inner thoughts and various hardships. The story is beautifully told, with realistic dialogue and an ensemble cast that work together wonderfully. This film is timeless, and can be enjoyed by an audience of all ages.… Expand
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10
kemunroeJun 14, 2021
Ruby In Paradise is a standout piece that revels in Victor Nunez’s auteurship for introspective, honest storytelling. This coming-of-age drama follows Ruby Lee Gissing, played by Ashley Judd, as she leaves her hometown in Tennessee to start aRuby In Paradise is a standout piece that revels in Victor Nunez’s auteurship for introspective, honest storytelling. This coming-of-age drama follows Ruby Lee Gissing, played by Ashley Judd, as she leaves her hometown in Tennessee to start a new life in the panhandle of Florida. Judd’s subtle delivery and thoughtfulness brings a unique perception to Ruby’s character, inviting us to take a closer look at our desires and what they mean to us. Judd’s own ability to identify with the small-town environment is evident in her sensibility towards a desire for freedom and finding a place in the world outside of societal constraints. Victor Nunez impresses by stepping inside the politics of gender-identity to bring us a universal tale about love and identity, and fondly reminds us that it is okay to make mistakes and own the choices that we make. Nunez’s perceptive writing and direction elevates Ruby In Paradise as a celebration of womanhood and persistence in the face of difficulties.… Expand
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8
rgarza1155Jun 16, 2021
Ruby in Paradise is a film that captures both the monotony and struggles of day to day life and the shining moments in between. Ruby Lee Gissing is a young woman who, although lacking work experience and money, has the fire and determinationRuby in Paradise is a film that captures both the monotony and struggles of day to day life and the shining moments in between. Ruby Lee Gissing is a young woman who, although lacking work experience and money, has the fire and determination necessary to make a name for herself. Through her daily struggles and thoughtful monologues, her character is clearly established; Ruby is a woman who is struggling to find peace as a result of her tumultuous upbringing and dead-end relationships. But through it all, Ruby stands her ground and pushes forward, surpassing all expectations. The same can be said about the movie; where most movies in Hollywood try to conform to a set standard, Ruby in Paradise knows exactly what it is and refuses to be anything else.… Expand
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10
gracegrahamJun 15, 2021
Ruby in Paradise is an intriguing coming of age film, written and directed by Victor Nuñez in 1993, that unravels the story of a young woman in her 20’s escaping her past and starting fresh. She finds strength in herself as she bravelyRuby in Paradise is an intriguing coming of age film, written and directed by Victor Nuñez in 1993, that unravels the story of a young woman in her 20’s escaping her past and starting fresh. She finds strength in herself as she bravely navigates the obstacles that life throws at her. This film highlights the idea of sisterhood and women supporting women, through her friend Rochelle, her boss at the beach shop, and her female coworkers at a different job. This is an important theme that many women can relate to. She finds the ability to create a new life in a new town within herself, as she realizes she doesn’t need a man to guide her or save her. This film is empowering as we see a young woman finding the courage to unapologetically take what she wants out of life. I highly recommend watching this film!… Expand
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9
lynnellevansJun 17, 2021
Roger Ebert’s film, Ruby in Paradise is his one of his best movies from the 90s. This film infuses you into its reality, sucking you in more and more with each problem Ruby faces. Not to mention the skill of Alex Vlacos, the cinematographer,Roger Ebert’s film, Ruby in Paradise is his one of his best movies from the 90s. This film infuses you into its reality, sucking you in more and more with each problem Ruby faces. Not to mention the skill of Alex Vlacos, the cinematographer, who creates such beautiful shots that makes the audience believe they’re living with Ruby in Panama City. I felt so connected with this movie straight from the first scene. I highly recommend this film to anyone who appreciates movies that make them leave them feeling nostalgic.… Expand
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9
SKmoviesredJun 14, 2021
Ruby in Paradise is a slice of life movie. With no big action scenes and zero special effects, Ruby in Paradise instead largely focuses on dialogue and characters. The main character, Ruby is a small town girl working in retail, someone theRuby in Paradise is a slice of life movie. With no big action scenes and zero special effects, Ruby in Paradise instead largely focuses on dialogue and characters. The main character, Ruby is a small town girl working in retail, someone the audience can relate to. The dialogue is very conversational and packed full of southern expressions, making it super easy to follow and believe. Each moment in the film could have been taken straight out of somebody’s real life. An incredibly intimate and personal film, Ruby in Paradise invites you into the movie as a stranger, but you leave as a close friend.… Expand
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10
dylanbyrdJun 15, 2021
Ruby In Paradise has an incredibly profound message that was very inspiring for me. The film follows Ruby Lee Gissing who is escaping her abusive relationship for a life of independence. Ruby embodies a passion for independence and anRuby In Paradise has an incredibly profound message that was very inspiring for me. The film follows Ruby Lee Gissing who is escaping her abusive relationship for a life of independence. Ruby embodies a passion for independence and an incredible work ethic, but nevertheless faces challenges for being a young woman. The most inspiring part for me is seeing her overcome those obstacles, but especially learning the importance of having people to lean on like the other women in the film who seek to build her up and not change her or manipulate her. Ruby In Paradise was incredibly well made, and engages the audience on such an intimate level. I really recommend watching it to see the empowering story.… Expand
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10
PriscilaFernJun 17, 2021
This classic coming-of-age drama organically depicts the hardships of independence for young adults, especially women. Ashley Judd masterfully plays Ruby Lee Gissing candidly as she navigates the struggles of finding her place in life in aThis classic coming-of-age drama organically depicts the hardships of independence for young adults, especially women. Ashley Judd masterfully plays Ruby Lee Gissing candidly as she navigates the struggles of finding her place in life in a unique and bold manner. Victor Nuñez, director and writer of Ruby in Paradise magnificently develops each and every character in an honest and realistic way which creates an authentic tone that is maintained throughout the film. Ruby in Paradise is also tremendously profound in the delivery of each character and setting in Ruby’s endeavor to thrive as a young adult. This story is inspiring as it shows personal growth and the value of the complexity of life. I highly recommend this film to watch next as it is unique and wonderfully created.… Expand
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9
sukininoJun 29, 2021
Written and Directed by Victor Nunez, Ruby in Paradise serves as a refreshing, contemporary film on female empowerment and self-discovery. With in-depth character writing and melancholy cinematic shots of Florida, the film was a realistic andWritten and Directed by Victor Nunez, Ruby in Paradise serves as a refreshing, contemporary film on female empowerment and self-discovery. With in-depth character writing and melancholy cinematic shots of Florida, the film was a realistic and gentle portrayal of a young woman’s journey of self-discovery and independence after running away to start a new life for herself in Panama City, Florida. Ashley Judd’s breakout role as Ruby Lee Gissing is worth watching as she elevates the complexities of adulthood and independence in a poignant, vulnerable, and natural performance. Overall, Ruby In Paradise offers an honest, stimulating tale of a woman who is determined to put her happiness in her own hands.… Expand
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9
isabparkerJun 17, 2021
Set in the 1990s in Panama City Beach, Ruby in Paradise follows a young woman as she embarks on a journey of self-growth and emancipation. Ashley Judd plays the titular character of Ruby, whose identity-driven development is just asSet in the 1990s in Panama City Beach, Ruby in Paradise follows a young woman as she embarks on a journey of self-growth and emancipation. Ashley Judd plays the titular character of Ruby, whose identity-driven development is just as multidimensional as the performance given by Judd. Writer/director Victor Nunez does an impeccable job of giving Ruby agency while also allowing her to learn and grow in her own way. This movie was way before its time in highlighting a young woman’s coming-of-age story and it does so with an authenticity that is not seen in many movies today. The movie truly is a testament to the power of a local filmmaker. I highly recommend this film.… Expand
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10
Aj12385Oct 11, 2021
Film Director Victor Nunez creatively put together Ruby in Paradise in 1993, which has much relevance in todays society. This journey through life is viewed through the lends of Ruby who is played by talented actress, Ashley Jud. With highFilm Director Victor Nunez creatively put together Ruby in Paradise in 1993, which has much relevance in todays society. This journey through life is viewed through the lends of Ruby who is played by talented actress, Ashley Jud. With high hopes of leaving her hometown in Tennessee for a better life in Florida, Ruby encounters many obstacles in this new life she sets out for herself and viewers are able to witness relatable events throughout her journey. The cinematic experience is soothing and well crafted for people to truly take in and puzzle together.… Expand
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10
seitzstOct 4, 2021
Ruby in Paradise is a beautifully captured film that portrays some of the best parts of living in Florida, while not shying away from the struggles of it too. Director Victor Nuñez introduces a young woman, named Ruby Lee Gillings, as sheRuby in Paradise is a beautifully captured film that portrays some of the best parts of living in Florida, while not shying away from the struggles of it too. Director Victor Nuñez introduces a young woman, named Ruby Lee Gillings, as she explores her new found independence in a beach town that is on its off season. The film really demonstrates the problems she has with finding a job when the whole place is deserted by tourists. However, Ruby is able to make something of herself through her choices and all of the characters she meets. Ruby is played by Ashley Judd, in her first breakout role, and she is able to hit all of the emotional moments as she works perfectly off of her co-stars. This film does a great job at taking on a more humanistic approach to the classic ‘coming of age’ story by taking on a more realistic approach during this journey of self-discovery.… Expand
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10
danaitnOct 8, 2021
Ruby in Paradise is a truthful character study of a young woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery on her own. Director and Writer Victor Nunez slowly paces the film in an almost dream-like state. The main character, Ruby, seeksRuby in Paradise is a truthful character study of a young woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery on her own. Director and Writer Victor Nunez slowly paces the film in an almost dream-like state. The main character, Ruby, seeks empowerment in the small tourist hub in Panama City Beach, where she relocates. Audiences are taken along her journey at a slow, life-like pace. Ruby’s story is riddled with self-reflection, offering a captivating personal lens to the viewer. Ashley Judd leads with a breathtaking performance in this classic and timeless coming-of-age film.… Expand
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10
marcusgarciaOct 4, 2021
Ruby in Paradise is an incredible coming-of-age drama inspired by Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey. Directed by Victor Nuñez, the film follows as Ruby Lee Gissing leaves her old life in Tennessee behind to start over in Florida. HerRuby in Paradise is an incredible coming-of-age drama inspired by Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey. Directed by Victor Nuñez, the film follows as Ruby Lee Gissing leaves her old life in Tennessee behind to start over in Florida. Her breakthrough role, Ashley Judd’s subtle acting brings Ruby to life in a way that makes her feel real and relatable. Likewise, the rest of the cast do a wonderful job portraying the subtle everyday emotions real people feel. These elements come together to make Ruby in Paradise a very appealing film that has withstood the test of time.… Expand
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9
LeeBroaddusOct 11, 2021
Ruby in Paradise is a beautiful and intimate look at a young woman starting her journey toward independence. Director Victor Nunez perfectly captures the nuances of the main character Ruby Lee Gissing who is portrayed by Ashley Judd. Judd isRuby in Paradise is a beautiful and intimate look at a young woman starting her journey toward independence. Director Victor Nunez perfectly captures the nuances of the main character Ruby Lee Gissing who is portrayed by Ashley Judd. Judd is endearing as Ruby and you are able to see her grow through the new relationships that she garners throughout her time in Panama City Beach, Florida. Ruby leaves her turbulent past in Tennessee for the white sand beaches of Panama City Beach and she is yearning for a break from her tribulations. She begins working at a gift shop right by the beach and the people that she comes into contact with help her find out who she is and how she can make her own paradise. Ruby in Paradise is a beautiful, patient, and warm coming-of-age story that shows how you are able to write your own story regardless of the past.… Expand
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10
MarkLozariOct 6, 2021
The film Ruby in Paradise is truly a hidden gem. Directed by the brilliant mind of Victor Nunez, he brings it into its glory and takes it all the way to be the winner of the 1993 Sundance Film Festival. This could not have been done withoutThe film Ruby in Paradise is truly a hidden gem. Directed by the brilliant mind of Victor Nunez, he brings it into its glory and takes it all the way to be the winner of the 1993 Sundance Film Festival. This could not have been done without the stunning performance from Ashley Judd, of the protagonist of the film, Ruby Lee Gissing. Stunning cinematography, as well as phenomenal acting bring this film to light and make it the classic that it is today. Not a dull moment throughout the film, Ruby in Paradise proves to be a culmination of all aspects of film, executed perfectly.… Expand
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9
justinnettyOct 4, 2021
Victor Nunez's Ruby in Paradise presents a sometimes eerily realistic take of a young adult navigating familiar feelings in a strange new environment, specifically Panama City Beach, Florida. The gritty cinematography coupled with the beautyVictor Nunez's Ruby in Paradise presents a sometimes eerily realistic take of a young adult navigating familiar feelings in a strange new environment, specifically Panama City Beach, Florida. The gritty cinematography coupled with the beauty of this beach town keys in on feelings that the main protagonist Ruby Lee Gissing (played by Ashley Judd) comes to develop as she inadvertently creates lasting consequences for herself through impulse decisions that haunt her later in the film. Her employment at a coastal beach shop and difficulties with social and financial life all play off one another, making the natural progression of events so believable as the story almost seems to write itself on the screen. Judd's performance takes centerstage as she subtly conveys her feelings through slight behavioral changes and then narrates them through her diary entries after big events play out, making the grounded plot almost fantastical in how realistic it is. Every new scene of Ruby in Paradise reminds its audience why it is a 1993 Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize winner, and for better or worse, a realistic depiction of the harsh realities of life.… Expand
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10
ShayFIlmsOct 8, 2021
Director Victor Nunez beautifully captures a story of a young woman that is realistic, honest, and worthy of praise. After moving away from home where everything was “do this and do that”, Ruby finds herself alone in a place that could haveDirector Victor Nunez beautifully captures a story of a young woman that is realistic, honest, and worthy of praise. After moving away from home where everything was “do this and do that”, Ruby finds herself alone in a place that could have been paradise. Except, she is met with the reality of supporting herself, navigating relationships, and finding work during the slow season. Ruby’s struggles reflect that leaving your home can be difficult and a true test of your character, strength, and resilience— which Ruby proves each time she bounces back from a situation. Her optimism was seen through her determination, making it easy to appreciate her as a protagonist. What a fantastic way to tell a story.… Expand
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