Christy: Choices of the Heart

If you want to be entertained, this is a movie to see and enjoy. I didn't at first because it wasn't my original CBS series! That is still my favorite, and always will be...but these new movies have grown on me. We wanted more Christy and this is what we've gotten...we STILL want more Christy movies...and have our hopes that this will happen...SFM was wonderful in this...he is Doc MacNeill and it made the film so much better for me. Also having the original cast members playing Birds-Eye Taylor, Jeb Spencer, Tom and Opal McHone were a real boon to the film...All I can say in closing is that I liked it!

At long last, an extremely satisfying and very romantic conclusion to the CBS series! Fans fought for over 5 years to bring back Christy after an abrupt cancellation in 1995 and their wish came true in 2001. Part 1 of Christy: Choices of the Heart deals with the typhoid epidemic and it's aftermath while Part 2 deals with a terrifying storm which affects the inhabitants of Cutter and also ultimately reflects the "storm" in Christy's heart over the two men in her life.

Lauren Lee Smith takes over from Kellie Martin in the title role and radiates both innocence and maturity as Christy. James Waterston takes over from Randall Batinkoff as gives a sympathetic performance as Reverend David Grantland. Stewart Finlay-McLennan returns as Dr. Neil MacNeill from the CBS series and is just totally, and I mean totally outstanding and at his "zenith" in the role! I don't wish to give away any plot details but you have to see parts 1 and 2 together to thoroughly enjoy this adaptation of CM's novel. Kudos especially to returning cast members Mike Hickman as Bird's-Eye Taylor, Dale Dickey as Opal McHone, Andy Stahl as Tom McHone, and Bruce McKinnon as Jeb Spencer.

CBS may have axed the delightful mid-1990s series based upon Catherine Marshall's beloved novel "Christy," but this movie and it's companions "Return to Cutter Gap" and "A New Beginning" are a welcome continuation of this family classic.

Newcomer Lauren Lee Smith gives just the right touch of grace and determination to the title role, David Waterston fills out the role of her suitor Minister David Grantland in ways the original series never reached, and Stewart Finlay-McLennan reprises his definitive portrayal of Christy's cantankerous yet captivating Dr. MacNeill. Sterling supporting performances by members of the original series' cast and additional newcomers round out a wonderful ensemble.

It is rare to find a film that is both high in filmmaking quality and in substance, yet also watchable by the entire family. This movie is all that and more.

With breathtaking cinematography, top-notch direction and editing, a musical score that suits the film to a T, and a screenplay that captures the very essence of the themes of Catherine Marshall's novel, this "Christy" is a worthwhile addition to any family's video library. My family has watched it again and again, and I am certain yours will love it too.

At last the answer to the question millions who have read the book have wondered about for over thirty years--just who does Christy marry. This exciting adventure answers that question once and for all.

If you want action, including a life-threatening storm and flood complete with a river rescue, a beloved character trapped under a collapsed building, the lead character suffering from a near fatal fever, and passionate verbal and physical exchanges between Christy and her future husband, then this one is the one to watch.

The acting is the best in the three new Christy movies and Miss Smith gives a convincing performance as the lead character. This movie also contains Finlay-McLennan's as Dr. MacNeil at his absolute best...he has several pivotal scenes with Christy that will move you beyond belief. You will also enjoy both James Waterston as David Grantland and Jacob Witkin as Dr. Ferrand here as they set out on a trek through the storm to aid the others and in the process, you learn a great deal about these two fine men.

The wedding is also just what we had all hoped for for so many years, and it is beautiful, tearful and joyful at the same time.

Other supporting players give great performances--Olivia Kelly as Ruby Mae is a treat, and she adds the light comedy in a charming way. Dale Dickey as Opal McHone is fantastic...she gives a totally real, inspiring performance. And Mike Hickman as Bird's Eye Taylor has a really great moment in this film.

I can not recommend this film enough...especially for true "Christy" fans. There are some scenes here that will leave you breathless. This is also the most spiritual of the three movies and those who watch "Christy" for its religious and moral values will not be disappointed. Your whole family should enjoy this.

I enjoyed this movie immensely. While it was/is hard to adapt to the character changes, the actors are good and they pull it off. James Waterson makes a sweet and lovable David Grantland... which may be one of the problems in this movie as far as being true to the book, since the David of the book was a pompous, arrogant fool until the very end (although not as pompous and arrogant as the David from the original TV series :)). BUT I loved Waterson in this movie nonetheless.

Despite what the previous commentator said, these movies were more true to the book that the original TV series was. But I won't say why, because that would give it away ;) I would highly recommend reading the book before (or after) seeing this two part mini-series, so you can judge for yourself.