Citizen Ruth (1996)

Citizen Ruth is Alexander Payne's dark comedy about an addict swept up in America's abortion debate. Activists on both sides claim her as their cause, not a person. Laura Dern anchors the film with a raw, unglamorous performance in the title role. She plays every scene with a jittery, wounded energy that never asks for sympathy. The archive holds 1 scene from the film showing Dern nude. It's a brief glimpse, but a memorable one that suits the character's chaotic, stripped-down existence. This isn't a film built around skin. Still, the clip on file captures a rare unguarded piece of a fiercely funny performance.