Maggie Gyllenhaal has chosen her characters carefully over her career, but since becoming a mom, the actress is more discriminating than ever.

That’s why it’s no surprise that Gyllenhaal was eager to take on the role of Jean Craddock in Crazy Heart. Craddock is the juicy part of a journalist who helps hard-living Country Music singer, Bad Blake (Jeff Bridges) find salvation in the film.

After two years of full-time parenting, Gyllenhaal knew Crazy Heart was a project that she could focus her attention on - specifically for her own self-satisfaction.

Click onto media bar for Maggie Gyllenhaal’s journey from 24/7 mom to the intricate character of Jean Craddock in Crazy Heart.

Crazy Heart was released in December for a qualifying Academy Award consideration run. Jeff Bridges is said to be on the fast-track for an Oscar nomination.