In 1952 Iowa, a terminally-ill mother of ten children (of various ages, and one with epilepsy) must find new homes for the youngsters when it becomes apparent her alcoholic, frequently-unemployed husband will not be able to care for them once she passes on. Based on a true story, and told with tender, loving care, this is an honest tearjerker--and one with an unusual angle. Ann-Margret, making her first foray in the movie-of-the-week genre, not only must explain to her kids that she's dying but also that adoptive parents must be found for each of them, which means separating the siblings. It's a heady task for everyone involved, most especially the resolved, grounded matriarch who only cries in private. The film comes up a bit short in delineating the ne'er-do-well father's responsibilities and emotions--and the kids don't seem to have much of a connection to him--although Frederic Forrest comes across strongly in this role. The period flavor (although a bit hokey in the beginning) is well accomplished, and Ann-Margret's strength and courage as Lucile Fray holds the whole thing together like loving glue.
Review of Who Will Love My Children?
Who Will Love My Children?
(1983 TV Movie)
Unusual TV-tearjerker with excellent performances...
23 November 2010