One of the saddest stories ever told...
I remember seeing this film when it was originally broadcast in 1977. It is based on article in Life Magazine about a true story. Thomas Thompson later turned it into a book. It is one of the most intense, emotional stories ever told. You see the disaster coming, and, yet, you know there is no way to stop it. You feel as helpless as Richie's Mom and Dad, and Richie himself. I would like to go on the recordand disagree with others: there are no villains in this story(unless it is drugs), only victims. I remember identifying with Richie's brother Russ. I felt his sense of helplessness. He loved his brother, but he knew there was nothing he could do to help him. There is a powerful scene in which Russ begs his brother to quit taking drugs. If Richie's expression and pain could have been translated into action, he would have quit right then and there. I believe that Richie's Mom, Dad and brother, Russ, loved him with all their hearts. There was an incredibly moving scene in which Richie is talking to his Dad about how unloved he feels, his father breaks down and cries with his son. And every effort Richie makes to get his life straightened out comes up short. Although Richie really does try to fight his drug addiction, in the end it is all for naught. The drugs were stronger than he was.It will haunt you forever that Dad, Ben Gazzara, has to shoot Richie in self-defense. This is as great a human tragedy as has ever been told. And one of two magnificent performances by Robbie Benson. His other "Death Be Not Proud".
Everyone connected to this film should be proud. I saw it once 25 years ago, and remember it almost word for word. There aren't many films which can make that claim. Its sad that such a powerful story has been forgotten and overlooked. It shouldn't be.
score /10
bkohatl 7 December 2003
Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw0152641/35920
Pages:
[1]