Every HBO Miniseries Ranked Worst To Best

Though it wouldn't be fair to compare Mildred Pierce to the 1945 film adaptation of James M. Cain's novel, you can't help but notice how immaculately both versions bring the source material to life. In Todd Haynes' rendition, Kate Winslet leads the family melodrama as a mother battling for her daughter's respect.

Mildred Pierce is a beautiful if tragic drama that perfectly captures the fractured relationship between Mildred and Veda Pierce whilst also painting a fresh picture of life during the Great Depression. There are some blips, particularly with its five-hour length, but when the acting, tone and message is this strong, such scruples are easy to forgive.