Rose Byrne Brings Unhoused Woman's True Story to Screen in 'Tow'

Actress met with real-life inspiration Amanda Ogle to authentically portray her fight to reclaim impounded car.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 5:00pm

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Rose Byrne stars in the new film Tow, which tells the true story of Amanda Ogle, an unhoused woman living in her car in Seattle. After Ogle's Toyota Camry is stolen and impounded, she engages in a relentless legal battle to reclaim her vehicle and her independence. Byrne met with Ogle during filming to better understand her struggles and determination.

Why it matters

Tow shines a light on the challenges faced by the unhoused population, particularly those who rely on their vehicles as a last resort for shelter and transportation. Ogle's story highlights the bureaucratic obstacles and lack of empathy that many unhoused individuals encounter when trying to reclaim basic necessities.

The details

In the film, Rose Byrne portrays Amanda Ogle, a woman living out of her Toyota Camry on the streets of Seattle. After her car is stolen and impounded, Ogle fights tirelessly through the legal system to get it back, seeing the vehicle as a critical lifeline. Byrne spent time with the real-life Ogle, observing her daily routines and learning about her unwavering perseverance in the face of adversity.

  • Tow is now playing in select theaters.

The players

Rose Byrne

An acclaimed actress who received her first Oscar nomination for her performance in If I Had Legs I'd Kick You.

Amanda Ogle

The real-life unhoused woman whose story is depicted in the film Tow, in which she fights to reclaim her impounded car.

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What they’re saying

“She's extraordinary, her stubbornness, her perseverance and most of all her self-respect and her value of wanting to fight this fight.”

— Rose Byrne, Actress

“Which is really what it's about. Less so the car, but about that drive.”

— Rose Byrne, Actress

The takeaway

Tow brings much-needed attention to the struggles of the unhoused population, highlighting the determination and resilience of individuals like Amanda Ogle who refuse to give up in the face of daunting obstacles. The film serves as a powerful reminder of the humanity and dignity that should be afforded to all, regardless of their housing status.