A 10-star rating goes out to "A Brand New Life," the Emmy Winning, Made-For-TV movie based on the events surrounding a middle-aged couple who discover they will soon have a child.
One cannot watch this film without coming away with a genuine respect for the characters involved. Of course, Cloris Leachman, who won an Emmy Award for "Outstanding Single Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role," is astounding as the middle-aged mother-to-be. Martin Balsam, who plays her husband, is equally excellent in his role. The sets, story-line and musical arrangements provide interest and feeling for the characters involved.
A nod goes out to Karen Philipp, who received a TV Guide write-up entitled "Expertly Played By Karen Philipp" for her role as "Sarah White." Former vocalist for Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66, "A Brand New Life" proves that Karen has more than a way with song. She is an excellent actor as well. The depth with which she handles this role is astounding. "Well done" would hardly describe the supporting role she plays in this wonderful, emotional film.
All in all, "A Brand New Life" leaves you with a feeling that you have lived through this experience with the characters involved -- you literally become lost in the story -- the mark of a well-made film.
From the standpoint of quality, you can't get much better than "A Brand New Life." The story flows, the actors breathe life into the characters portrayed. This is what middle-aged couples experience on learning they are to become parents. The film is so well done, so well directed and moves so quickly, you feel a genuine sense of care and concern for those involved.
Do yourself and favor and check out "A Brand New Life." If anything, you will gain a new respect for the challenges faced by middle-aged people on the verge of parenthood. What's more, you'll feel good for having done so.
