The Promise

Very good chick flick even with the bad nose and teeth for Kathleen Quinlan. I saw this movie at Radio City Music Hall when it opened there in March of 1979 (I believe it was St. Patrick's Day). Somewhat predictable all the way thru but the actors do a great job in making you care that it turns out right in the end.

I first saw this movie on TV about 15 years ago. It has haunted me ever since, in part because of the story itself, and in part because the editors bungled their job and nearly destroyed what could have been a truly great film. What they gave us instead is a good film with a great story line. It is that story, along with the acting ability of Kathleen Quinlan and Steven Collins, that saves the film. If you have not read Danielle Steele's adaptation of the original screen play, do so. It will fill in some of the answers to the questions left open by the insensitivity of the film's editors.

This is a love story, and a good one, about two individuals whose love for each other is pure and true and ultimately stands the test of both time and tragedy. If that makes it syrup, then so be it. I like it. I wish I could get a DVD edition of this movie.

A movie does not have to be full of vulgar language and gratuitous sex to be good; it doesn't have to be filled with blood and guts and action sequences; and thank God this one has none of the above. Without resorting to the seamer side of life, this story will engage your emotions and embed itself in your mind and your soul, leaving an impression that can last a lifetime. This alone is enough to make it a movie worth two hours of your time.

If you have not seen this movie, try to find a copy of it. After viewing it, I think you will agree that this movie has been underrated by the IMDB rating system.

The book of "The Promise" was so wonderful, I just couldn't wait to see the movie. I can't imagine if I would have enjoyed the movie as much if I hadn't read the book. Remembering the book while watching the movie made me enjoy it more. I thought it was very good. I only wish the ending had been longer. The music was great and the actors played the parts very well. It was an endearing love story. While women may love the movie more than gentlemen, I have two sons in their 40's that are trying to get copies of this movie as it was one of their favorites growing up. I wish it would come out on DVD. It was one of Danielle Steele's best stories - by far.

The Promise is a production that deserved better than the shabby treatment that shows up on screen. Although the screenplay is cobbled together by a talentless hack and directed with indifference by Gilbert Cates, the performances are winning from Stephen Collins and Kathleen Quinlan. Their onscreen chemistry is obvious. The story IS compelling, but the screenplay shoots itself right from the start by not letting the audience get to know the two lovers before tragedy appears. For those interested in reading a more complete and personal version of the story, try to find a copy of the novelization by Danielle Steele. One of her first works, the book fills in all the gaps in the story and in only a few paragraphs, gives a much more satisfying ending.

Well, I have finally been able to screen this movie in widescreen and on blu ray. While its still a flawed production, it finally looks like a real movie, low budget, yes, but not some tv knockoff. Looking back, my feelings are still the same. The ending needs something more. Danielle Steele saw this as well and expanded the finale a bit, adding emotional fireworks and a more pleasing conclusion in her adaption. Cheesy? Yes, but still an enjoyable experience for the romantic in us all.

In 1979, I was 14, and I can remember that this was the big movie that all the kids at school wanted to see. I actually remember loving it then. Years later, all I can do at the age of 37 is cringe with embarrassment that I actually still like this thing.

How unrealistic can you get? With the exception of some make up and hair manipulation, there really is no difference between the Nancy and Marie faces. Most of the change is effected through Quinlin's acting ability (as well suddenly changing her wardrobe to the 70's disco chic that was popular at the time). It's not the only lapse in reality in the film, but it's by far the biggest. It takes a great deal of work on the part of Quinlan, Collins, and Straight to get you to come anywhere near believing the difference exists.

Laurence Luckinbill plays a truly predictable character as the Pygmalionesque doctor who creates the physical Marie. His character is more or less a plot device (as is Bibi Besch's), and his performance reflects it. On the other hand, Beatrice Straight (who was always one of the most underrated actresses in the business) gives a fantastic performance as Michael's mother. Her face says it all when she runs out of the hospital room and the impact of the lie that she has just told hits her.

Gibert Cates, who unfortunately has not been able to truly repeat his critical success in "I Never Sang for my Father", at least tries to do something with the script. It is hard, however, when the story is basically formula and schmaltz. In the end, it is Quinlan, Collins, and Straight who succeed in getting the film to rise above it. Their performances get you to continue to watch and find something good even though you really want to hate it.