By Forris Day Jr.
Struggling with the suicide of her mother, and an alcoholic Father, Terry Malone (Sarah Wilson) left home. Several years later, after meeting the man of her dreams, she returns to announce her impending marriage. Things do not go smoothly though. Her sister Jean (Tara Westwood) is angry with Terry for leaving during one of the toughest periods for the family. Terry ran to escape, while her sister Jean stayed and dealt with the problems of alcoholism and mental illness within this somewhat dysfunctional group of folks. This family, in reality, is probably not much different than any other. They have secrets, screw-ups and good people comprising this menage. Can they work out their differences to make Terry’s wedding a memorable event, or does the anger run too deep?
“Surviving Family” is a very touching and powerful film that I thoroughly enjoyed start to finish. I became engrossed in the thought provoking story, and found I could relate to the characters within it. We all have people in our own families that have made major mistakes, but we still love them just the same. This movie deals with just that kind of forgiveness. We are also reminded that most times, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. A very multilayered story that is sewn tightly together with good writing, believable acting and spot on directing. The screenplay is written by Mara Lesemann and directed by Laura Thies. I say keep your eyes on this power duo in the future, as there is no telling what other wonderful movies they will create together.
Anyone who likes a good “Lifetime” or “Hallmark Chanel” movie will fall in love with “Surviving Family”. It’s a more complex story than a made for TV movie and far more enjoyable, yet I can see it being played on either of these stations, after it’s theatrical run, of course. To learn more about this movie that I highly recommend, check out the links below. You can also listen to the one-on-one conversation I have with writer Mara Lesemann as she discusses the writing process and what it took to make the film. (Link below)
Rating: 9/10 – “You can choose your friends, but you can’t choose your relatives”
