Popular high school student John Carluccio (a fine and likable performance by Paul Carafortes) is forced to be cut from the football team after the new school doctor discovers that he's partially deaf. Distraught by this, John alienates himself from friends and family alike by falling in with a bad crowd. Director Silvio Narizzano, working from a thoughtful script by Jon Stevens, relates the engrossing story at a steady pace, presents an accurate depiction of adolescent life, adds a few nice touches of humor here and there, keeps the drama on an even keel (things fortunately never get too sappy), maintains an earnest tone throughout, and handles the central theme of prejudice against the handicapped in a tactful and tasteful manner. Moreover, the conclusion manages to be moving and realistic, with John finally accepting that he's got a disability and taking the necessary steps to adapt to it. The sterling acting by Carafortes holds the picture together; he receives excellent support from Victor French as John's supportive father Gary, Val Avery as the gruff Coach Rizzo, a pre-fame Demi Moore as the sweet Corri, Lelia Goldoni as caring mother Jean, Dennis Patrick as the pragmatic Dr. Bowers, Billy Moses as loyal and concerned best buddy Pat, Stephen Nichols as sleazy and swaggering greaser Chris, and Pat Buttram as amiable old-timer bartender Pops. A worthwhile film.
Review of Choices
