This Hallmark made-for-television film focuses on a family reunion at Thanksgiving. The centerpiece of the drama is the character of Maggie (Doris Roberts), who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Maggie's two daughters, Veletta (Megan Gallagher) and Brit (Dana Delaney) have taken different paths in their personal lives and careers. The Thanksgiving event reunites the two daughters who must come to terms with their mother's illness and the choices they have made.
All of the performances are sensitive and credible. Doris Roberts's character is so intelligent that her realization of the Alzheimer's is made all the more tragic. The two daughters were also convincingly portrayed by the performers; the characters move towards a stronger bond as they renew their family ties and reflect on their past.
The film is striking in the simplicity of the plot structure of preparing the Thanksgiving dinner. The final hour is a taut dramatic experience and compelling because of the frank discussion among the family members.
The film's title is especially appropriate, as the movie depicts that special time of the year when we give thanks and reflect on our personal family experiences at the time of our own Thanksgivings past and present. It is a touching, thoughtful film because it transcends the clinical topic of Alzheimer's to offer a portrait of such universal values as family, memory, and love.
