In Holy Smoke! (1999), Kate Winslet delivers a bold and fearless performance as Ruth Barron, a young Australian woman who undergoes a profound personal and spiritual transformation. After experiencing a religious awakening during a trip to India, Ruth becomes devoted to a charismatic guru. Her sudden and intense conversion alarms her conservative family, who lure her back home under false pretenses and hire an American deprogrammer, P.J. Waters (played by Harvey Keitel), to break her perceived cult attachment.

Winslet’s portrayal of Ruth is complex and emotionally charged, capturing the character’s inner turmoil, defiance, vulnerability, and fierce independence. Through her performance, Winslet explores themes of identity, autonomy, and power dynamics, particularly in the psychological battle between Ruth and P.J. The role demanded emotional intensity and physical vulnerability, and Winslet embraced it with raw honesty, further cementing her reputation as one of the most fearless and versatile actresses of her generation.

Her performance in Holy Smoke! is noted for its daring and emotional depth, making Ruth one of the most provocative and memorable characters in Winslet’s early career.