May 2002 Little John

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Reviewed by Wilson Morales Little John A Hallmark Hall of Fame Presentation Television: CBS Director: Dick Lowry Cast: Ving Rhames, Gloria Reuben, Patty Duke, Robert Bailey, Jr., Reuben Santiago-Hudson Air Date Sunday, May 5, 2002 9-11pm Not all families are perfect. Some relationships are hard to repair if it has been strained for a long time. In Little John, a morning family drama from Hallmark Hall of Fame, the performances by the three leads show that over time some bridges can be crossed again. As a Family Court Judge, Natalie Britain (Reuben) is happy to be in a position she's worked hard for. Yet, sacrifices were made along the way that she resisted making a commitment to a long time suitor (Hudson). Twelve years ago, Natalie gave birth to a child and put him up for adoption. Unbeknownst to her, the child, Little John (Bailey Jr.) was raised on a Texas farm by Natalie'sfather, John (Rhames) from whom she is estranged. As John's health is failing, he tries to reestablish a relationship with his daughter by reuniting her with her son. Not an easy task as Natalie will discover. Little John is a very emotional and satisfying film to watch. Anyone who has been adopted and found their natural parent(s) will relate to this story. Robert Bailey Jr. is very good as the kid who has to get acquainted with his mother as well as make his grandfather happy. Rhames and Reuben are very effective as the father and daughter who try to reconnect as a family. The way the film play out is very realistic. As the saying goes "Time heals all wounds."