After the Promise (1987)

After the Promise is a 1987 American made-for-television drama film directed by David Greene. The film tells the story of Elmer Jackson, a widowed father who struggles to raise his three children on his own in rural America during the Great Depression. When Elmer’s children are taken away from him by child protective services, he embarks on a journey to reunite his family and prove that he is a fit parent.

Review:

After the Promise is a touching and powerful film that explores themes of family, love, and perseverance. The film features outstanding performances from its cast, particularly Mark Harmon as Elmer Jackson and Diana Scarwid as his love interest, Marilyn. The chemistry between the two is palpable, and their journey of overcoming obstacles together is both heartwarming and inspiring.

The film also tackles important social issues, such as the impact of poverty and government bureaucracy on families. It does so with sensitivity and nuance, avoiding melodrama and sentimentality. David Greene‘s direction is excellent, capturing the period setting and the emotional weight of the story with great finesse.

Awards:

After the Promise was nominated for several awards, including:

• Emmy Award for Outstanding Cinematography for a Miniseries or a Special
• Emmy Award for Outstanding Sound Editing for a Miniseries or a Special
• Emmy Award for Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Miniseries or a Special

Popularity:

After the Promise was well-received by audiences and critics alike and has a 7.7/10 rating on IMDb. Its popularity has also led to it being released on DVD and streaming platforms. The film has been praised for its honest portrayal of the challenges faced by families during the Great Depression and its ability to balance drama with heartwarming moments. It remains a classic of American made-for-television cinema.