This movie came out right after my son had a terrible accident that took most of his right hand and left hem scares from electrical burns. He was involved in Jr rodeo before the accident and we did not know if he would be able to continue.. Watching the movie helped to motivate him to try... long story short he started again and is still going on a rodeo scholarship in college and has a Nlbra world championship under his belt. He team ropes, tie down ropes, steer wrestles and rides saddle bronc.. It was a motivating film,,, I would like to get a copy somehow//// good flick for disabled individuals to motivate them to try things they may not have ordinarily tried
15 Reviews
It's not about the fall. It's about the lift that comes after.
mark.waltz23 February 2022
Warning: Spoilers
A good performance by the young Ryan Merriman will have your heart in knots in the story of a young boy who is paralyzed after a horse accident, having seemingly been okay, but sustaining injuries that did not turn up until later. Because of this, he has to be wheelchair and bed-bound, and this adds a lot of problems onto the plate of his parents, Dennis Quaid and Mare Winningham. They are already risking the loss of their property due to unpaid loans and the determination of the bank to foreclose so they can build new properties. Things like this do happen in real life, with the accidents definitely a tragedy regardless of the age. But it's when you're tested beyond reason that you find what kind of strength you do have, and this family will rise even if they lose some of what they had in the process.
A very good, above-average TV movie that really hits the heart about real people, nowhere near glamorous, facing hardships. There's an excellent performance by veteran actor Harve Presnell who had gone in his career from handsome Broadway leading man in musicals to aging curmudgeon, and here, he's the ladder although he definitely has a major Heart of Gold. He's not related at all to the family, but has been Quaid's surrogate father and thus is Merriman's surrogate grandfather and a great source of strength for everybody in the family. It's nice to see him playing a sympathetic character as opposed to the jerk he played in "Fargo". It's as if the spirit of his character of Leadville Johnny Brown is in this character, and the only difference is he doesn't sing.
The relationship of Quaid and Winningham, while loving, is not without its problems, and they deal with problems in different ways but somehow managed to make it back together even after they argue. Both are outstanding, and it's great to see families working together rather than just giving up at the first sign of trouble. Even the kids in Merriman's class work together to make everything easier for their friend, and even though he is wheelchair-bound, that doesn't stop him from being a typical young boy. When he lassos Presnell and makes him fall, it's one of the highlights of the film. I often find family TV movies cloying because they don't seem real but these characters are not cliches. A good majority of these films I regret spending 90 minutes with, but that is not the case with this.
A very good, above-average TV movie that really hits the heart about real people, nowhere near glamorous, facing hardships. There's an excellent performance by veteran actor Harve Presnell who had gone in his career from handsome Broadway leading man in musicals to aging curmudgeon, and here, he's the ladder although he definitely has a major Heart of Gold. He's not related at all to the family, but has been Quaid's surrogate father and thus is Merriman's surrogate grandfather and a great source of strength for everybody in the family. It's nice to see him playing a sympathetic character as opposed to the jerk he played in "Fargo". It's as if the spirit of his character of Leadville Johnny Brown is in this character, and the only difference is he doesn't sing.
The relationship of Quaid and Winningham, while loving, is not without its problems, and they deal with problems in different ways but somehow managed to make it back together even after they argue. Both are outstanding, and it's great to see families working together rather than just giving up at the first sign of trouble. Even the kids in Merriman's class work together to make everything easier for their friend, and even though he is wheelchair-bound, that doesn't stop him from being a typical young boy. When he lassos Presnell and makes him fall, it's one of the highlights of the film. I often find family TV movies cloying because they don't seem real but these characters are not cliches. A good majority of these films I regret spending 90 minutes with, but that is not the case with this.
upbeat
gwenearnold28 March 2004
Always having lived in "cowboy country" I appreciate the believability of this film. It portrays the type of wholesome family life the region I grew up in, the brush country of Texas, is accustomed to. Sometimes even the best men do the ranch work and leave the rearing of children to the women; this story shows men how to be loving fathers. It has a stellar cast of characters. A young neighbor's little boy, who was only 3 years old at the time I bought the video, liked it so much that I gave it to him. Now I plan to replace it, as I have a greatgrandson who will soon be old enough to enjoy it, and I think my whole family will, as well. There is a dearth of the type films which depict the values we wish instilled, so I'm grateful for this one.
Simple and predictable but good acting and some good old country wisdom.
nz man29 October 1999
This is heart-warming 'rainy day' entertainment. During the first half I fast-forwarded through some of the slow shmaltzy parts and then started to accept the film for what it was: a story about family struggles and achievements that aims at the heart and not the intellect. Congrats to Dennis Quaid on a fine directing debut. The ending is typically out of the Hollywood 'Officer and a Gentleman' box which thankfully does not detract from the film's positive family values. Worthwhile to watch with other family members who are not expecting a complex plot or sex and action. Have a box of tissues nearby for the tender scenes of love triumphing over adversity.
Heartbreaking movie, I cried a lot.
sandy_hills888825 March 2013
No doubt this is such a beautiful movie, Dennis Quaid did a great job directing his debut movie. It really touch me seeing how this family country in Montana suffer many tragedies throughout the whole movie and manage to pull it together by the end. Love it, and I needless to say, the acting is strong, especially to a very young Ryan Merriman, he shines in this movie, for someone who was very young at that time he really pull it off as the little cowboy kid, I cried every time he cried, it was just so emotional!. Although I get emotional in any movie that people start to cry! XD, but thats not the case, this a greatly enjoyable movie that is really worth watching, I think it aired a few days ago in TNT and I think sometime in the future it will show again, so stay tuned to that channel and watch it!
A heart-warming and uplifting film
SoCalGal10 October 1998
This was a wonderful and heart-warming film. It realistically portrayed some of the harsh struggles that can plague the American farmer of today. It was also very uplifting in that our heroes didn't give up in spite of the obstacles in their way.
It was refreshing to see that the solutions to their problems were reality based. They all made their own personal sacrifices to lift them out of their hardship. Their problems weren't solved magically, but by doing what was necessary to save their farm and their family.
This film was filled with love. But, not the hearts and flowers of so-called modern romance. But with the nitty-gritty type of love that is demonstrated by actions, not just with pretty words.
I personally feel that the most important part of the film is the way that Nathan's disability was dealt with. It didn't try to make it out to be something that it wasn't. They didn't waste time trying to look for some modern medical miracle cure. They dealt with it as a family. Best of all, the movie didn't treat Nathan like some courageous underdog. It treated him like he was a real person, whose disability, although it was a part of him, did not define him.
It was refreshing to see that the solutions to their problems were reality based. They all made their own personal sacrifices to lift them out of their hardship. Their problems weren't solved magically, but by doing what was necessary to save their farm and their family.
This film was filled with love. But, not the hearts and flowers of so-called modern romance. But with the nitty-gritty type of love that is demonstrated by actions, not just with pretty words.
I personally feel that the most important part of the film is the way that Nathan's disability was dealt with. It didn't try to make it out to be something that it wasn't. They didn't waste time trying to look for some modern medical miracle cure. They dealt with it as a family. Best of all, the movie didn't treat Nathan like some courageous underdog. It treated him like he was a real person, whose disability, although it was a part of him, did not define him.
A very touching family drama
Anrachman18 June 2017
I watched this movie on VCD over 15 years ago, then I just re-watched it today and decided to give this very good movie a review.
At first I though this movie is about cowboys life (because Dennis Quaid is wearing cowboy hat on the cover and I didn't read the synopsis) and I never like cowboys movie, but after I tried to watch it for couple of minutes, hey, this is not cowboys movie, this is modern family drama which took set in the country area. This movie is a touching, heartwarming family drama with cinematic shots, it makes you feel like you're reading a novel. I love it! The story is very sad and touchy, some people might think it little bit too depressing, but the story will give you a motivation to you and your family to keep strong and face all the bad things that came/might come to your life. Just watch it.
The acting of the actors are amazing, especially for Ryan Merriman, even he's still very young but his acting was so believable, so emotional. Good job for the main actor Dennis Quaid for directing this movie!
At first I though this movie is about cowboys life (because Dennis Quaid is wearing cowboy hat on the cover and I didn't read the synopsis) and I never like cowboys movie, but after I tried to watch it for couple of minutes, hey, this is not cowboys movie, this is modern family drama which took set in the country area. This movie is a touching, heartwarming family drama with cinematic shots, it makes you feel like you're reading a novel. I love it! The story is very sad and touchy, some people might think it little bit too depressing, but the story will give you a motivation to you and your family to keep strong and face all the bad things that came/might come to your life. Just watch it.
The acting of the actors are amazing, especially for Ryan Merriman, even he's still very young but his acting was so believable, so emotional. Good job for the main actor Dennis Quaid for directing this movie!
I love this movie!
tathigpen8 January 2011
I agree that this movie is not Dennis' best work, but he still did a great job playing the strict father that did not believe in coddling his son. He was tough and wanted his son to be that way too. Then when tragedy struck, it left them both unprepared and unable to handle the situation. The mother was doing all she could, but the boy wanted his father's love and attention. It took the grandfather to step in and teach them both that they still had commonalities in their life and were still connected by blood and nothing would ever change that. Yes, it is a tear jerker, it has gut wrenching scenes where you just boohoo, and then it has such happy scenes where you grin and boohoo in happiness for them. It takes a great movie that can move you from one side of the emotional wheel all the way around to the other side. I have watched this movie over and over, I love it and the message it has for everyone. I wish they would release it out on DVD, I want to add it to my collection. I only have it on VCR tape and the VCR is broken now. I would love to see it over again and again in the future on DVD.
inspirational video
kittelrl17 June 2016
This was very inspirational to my young son who lived a similar ranch life as the young man in the movie. At an early age he suffered severe electrical burns and lost most of his left hand. He mirrored the young mans determination in the movie figuring out how to do all of the Little Britches and JR. Rodeo events and continuing to High School, College and CPRA rodeos. He did very well through his years in rodeo including NLBRA world champion and a full ride college scholarship in roping and steer wrestling. He also excelled in football , basketball, and track. This movie had a deep impact on his success in life, in rodeo and other sports.
Granted the acting was not the best but the message conveyed makes it a winner.
Granted the acting was not the best but the message conveyed makes it a winner.
Outstanding movie. I wish Hollywood would make more of this type!!
Lynda-628 January 1999
This is a movie about real life. It is a movie of love, hope and family values presented in an excellent story. I would become a steady movie goer and video buyer if more of this type of movie was available. If seeing is a learning tool, this movie would surely benefit us all.
It was OK but.....
TONY-1359 December 1998
I never really cared for depressing movies, especially when they involve kids. Dennis Quaid could have been better in this movie. I've seen him a lot better. The kid, Ryan Merriman (Nathan) stole the show with his talents as a boy cowboy. Other than that the picture was a bit of a tear jerker but too depressing for me.
Best movie I've seen in all of my 63 years!
abkey12 June 2002
We both know there are some truly wonderful movies out there, but they are few and far between. Movies like MR. HOLLAND'S OPUS and OCTOBER SKY are two fine examples.
EVERYTHING THAT RISES was filmed on location in Montana, and the camera bears testimony of the Lord's art. The background music for this life-on-a-ranch movie is sparse, but the hoedown style of the music is of the caliber of Aaron Copeland rather than Hee-haw. (It's good!)
I could synopsize the story, but that wouldn't be fair. This movie is like OCTOBER SKY: the story is not what the movie's about. I could've done without some of the dialog, and a couple of the scenes. It's never gross, but it is pretty earthy and worldly at times. Prayer and God are mentioned in this film, but not as much as they deserve to be. However, this movie has great heart and passionate humanity that more than make up for its flaws.
Ryan Merriman plays the 11- or 12-year-old boy in this movie, and his acting ability is quite impressive at times. Mare Winningham is a great little actress and gives the same kind of performance she always gives: solid and absolutely credible. Mare has some of the best dialog in the movie, and her delivery of every word is flawless. Not a syllable is wasted. * Harve Presnell (who, if my past memory is working right, was a male lead on Broadway in his heyday) plays the Grandpa figure in this movie. His performance is terrific. (Watch his portraying humility, charity, and grace in a 30-second or so scene near the end.) Meat Loaf [sic] is a perfect choice as Dennis Quaid's down-to-earth buddy. Dennis stars and also directed.
I rented this movie from the store's Drama section, and loved it so much I watched it 3 times. It was the best 2-plus bucks I've ever spent on entertainment. Now if I can force myself to overcome the temptation to keep this movie instead of taking it back, you'll be able to watch it, too. (Actually, I bought it!)
EVERYTHING THAT RISES was filmed on location in Montana, and the camera bears testimony of the Lord's art. The background music for this life-on-a-ranch movie is sparse, but the hoedown style of the music is of the caliber of Aaron Copeland rather than Hee-haw. (It's good!)
I could synopsize the story, but that wouldn't be fair. This movie is like OCTOBER SKY: the story is not what the movie's about. I could've done without some of the dialog, and a couple of the scenes. It's never gross, but it is pretty earthy and worldly at times. Prayer and God are mentioned in this film, but not as much as they deserve to be. However, this movie has great heart and passionate humanity that more than make up for its flaws.
Ryan Merriman plays the 11- or 12-year-old boy in this movie, and his acting ability is quite impressive at times. Mare Winningham is a great little actress and gives the same kind of performance she always gives: solid and absolutely credible. Mare has some of the best dialog in the movie, and her delivery of every word is flawless. Not a syllable is wasted. * Harve Presnell (who, if my past memory is working right, was a male lead on Broadway in his heyday) plays the Grandpa figure in this movie. His performance is terrific. (Watch his portraying humility, charity, and grace in a 30-second or so scene near the end.) Meat Loaf [sic] is a perfect choice as Dennis Quaid's down-to-earth buddy. Dennis stars and also directed.
I rented this movie from the store's Drama section, and loved it so much I watched it 3 times. It was the best 2-plus bucks I've ever spent on entertainment. Now if I can force myself to overcome the temptation to keep this movie instead of taking it back, you'll be able to watch it, too. (Actually, I bought it!)
Excellent, clean family film we have seen in a long time.
alletas23 March 1999
Excellent story line with strong family morals. A really feel good movie. Educational as far as teaching children that disobedience can lead to serious consequences. We watched it a few times as a family and enjoyed it every time, even the children. Hopefully it will not be too long before we see such a good movie again. The only thing we would have changed would have been the title, it didn't seem as attractive as the movie itself.
Excellent acting and a brilliant Screenplay carry this film.
cebsi29 July 2000
Line after line of clear, crisp, realistic dialogue come flying at you in this top notch directorial debut for Randy Quaid. Harve Presnell seems to pick up this picture and carry it on his back though performances by young Ryan Merriman, Mare Winnningham and even Quaid himself do not disappoint. The home spun dialogue is as real as it has ever gotten for a motion picture- made for cable or otherwise. This is all worth a second viewing just to concentrate on the words emanating from your speakers. All this easily over comes a plot full of holes and a contrived ending. This is a movie worth watching and a cut above the usual Hollywood tripe and smut that passes for drama these days.
Best movie ever!
akey-117 August 2002
I'm 63 years old and have seen a great many movies, but never a movie this great. This is humanity -- at its best, presented in an "everyday" enironment.
I could synopsize the story, but that wouldn't be fair. This movie is like OCTOBER SKY: the story is not what the movie's about. I could've done without some of the dialog, and a couple of the scenes. It's never gross, but it is pretty earthy and worldly at times. Prayer and God are mentioned in this film, but not as much as they deserve to be. However, this movie has great heart and passionate humanity that more than make up for its flaws.
Ryan Merriman plays the 11- or 12-year-old boy in this movie, and his acting ability is quite impressive at times. Mare Winningham is a great little actress and gives the same kind of performance she always gives: solid and absolutely credible. Mare has some of the best dialog in the movie, and her delivery of every word is flawless. Not a syllable is wasted. Harve Presnell (who, if my past memory is working right, was a male lead on Broadway in his heyday) plays the Grandpa figure in this movie. His performance is terrific. (Watch his portraying humility, charity, and grace in a 30-second or so scene near the end.)
Filmed on location in Montana, the camera bears testimony of the Lord's art. The background music for this life-on-a-ranch movie is sparse, but the hoedown style of the music is of the caliber of Aaron Copeland rather than honky-tonkin'.
The ever-competent Dennis Quaid stars and also directed. Meat Loaf [sic] is great as Dennis Quaid's down-to-earth buddy.
Own this one, so you can watch it again and again. I'm hungrily waiting for the DVD!
I could synopsize the story, but that wouldn't be fair. This movie is like OCTOBER SKY: the story is not what the movie's about. I could've done without some of the dialog, and a couple of the scenes. It's never gross, but it is pretty earthy and worldly at times. Prayer and God are mentioned in this film, but not as much as they deserve to be. However, this movie has great heart and passionate humanity that more than make up for its flaws.
Ryan Merriman plays the 11- or 12-year-old boy in this movie, and his acting ability is quite impressive at times. Mare Winningham is a great little actress and gives the same kind of performance she always gives: solid and absolutely credible. Mare has some of the best dialog in the movie, and her delivery of every word is flawless. Not a syllable is wasted. Harve Presnell (who, if my past memory is working right, was a male lead on Broadway in his heyday) plays the Grandpa figure in this movie. His performance is terrific. (Watch his portraying humility, charity, and grace in a 30-second or so scene near the end.)
Filmed on location in Montana, the camera bears testimony of the Lord's art. The background music for this life-on-a-ranch movie is sparse, but the hoedown style of the music is of the caliber of Aaron Copeland rather than honky-tonkin'.
The ever-competent Dennis Quaid stars and also directed. Meat Loaf [sic] is great as Dennis Quaid's down-to-earth buddy.
Own this one, so you can watch it again and again. I'm hungrily waiting for the DVD!
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