NEW YORK (CNN) -- "My One and Only" begins with Renee Zellweger, playing a woman based on George Hamilton's mother Anne, discovering her husband with another woman. 

Renee Zellweger plays a woman based on George Hamilton's mother in "My One and Only." 

Despite the initial heartbreak, Anne puts on a happy face, and Zellweger gives life to a character who's determined to make the rest of her years comfortable and adventurous. 

Her husband's indiscretion is the catalyst that sends Anne on a cross-country quest to find a new husband in 1953 America. She pulls her two sons out of school in New York City and the trio set off on an adventure by car. The tale has its roots in actor George Hamilton's young life. 

The film takes a look at gender roles of the time and how women were perceived. Much of the film gets colored in by the characters and their ever-present emotions (though Zellweger's fabulous frocks add plenty of color on their own). 

Zellweger, who won an Oscar for "Cold Mountain," spoke with CNN about "My One And Only," George Hamilton and the way she believes she is perceived. Watch Zellweger talk about playing Hamilton's mother » 

CNN: What do you think of George Hamilton as a person now, knowing what he went through in his youth? 

Renee Zellweger: I think it's so fascinating. It was probably my favorite part of this experience, discovering that this was actually his life story. I mean, who knew? 

You have an idea about who a person is based on their public persona and the work that they've done. He's a spectacular actor, and his collection of parts that he's played and work that he's done is unbelievable. ... But to get to know him, he's so interesting. He's so clever, and he's very kind. Very kind. 
What kind of roles does the film explore?
The film takes a look at gender roles 