Aftermath: A Test of Love

With all the movies about killers it's overdue to have some movies focussing on the victims and the families and what they have to deal with. This horrible crime that took place in Utah in the 70s is stomach churning. Richard Chamberlain gives a great emotional performance as a man who pulls together his family after his wife is killed and son horribly injured. The recovery is agonizing. If anyone thinks violent criminals should be given leniency they need to watch this.

This 1991 TV Movie is based on a true story of cold-blooded and absolutely senseless murder. It demonstrates that no matter how charmed a life you may be leading, there is nothing to protect you from the random crime that changes you and those closest to you forever. The crime itself as portrayed in this production is very disturbing--I found myself turning away from the screen during this time, especially since I knew it was all based on actual events. Richard Chamberlain heads a fine cast as the detached, very successful father who is happy to leave the emotional needs of his lovely family to his warm-hearted wife, played by the marvelous Michael Learned. The supporting cast who complete the family of 3 sons and 1 daughter are all excellent, including Doug Savant, currently of Desperate Housewives. The actor who plays the pivotal role of the son, Terry, is outstanding--I think he gives a very believable portrayal of the hell his family is thrust into because of this random, heartless crime. Richard Chamberlain is memorable as the father who initially is the successful bread winner of the household, but rather aloof from his children, who then because of the most horrific circumstances, is forced to become the emotional foundation that keeps the family from succumbing to despair. The scene near the end of the movie, with Terry, his father and siblings at the cemetery, is especially touching.

An average TV drama about a family dealing with the "aftermath" (Terrible title BTW) of a robbery that leaves one member dead and the not at all well. Chamberlain does well in a mis-cast role, Terri Hames however does not. His post-robbery acting is a little too 'over', consisting mainly of shouting and intense staring. Script-wise, it's okay, nothing inspirational but nothing overly wishy-washy and the direction is, well, functional. What "Aftermath" is missing however, is a big moment, it just kinda drifts along until the end without really hitting any emotional notes. Otherwise, only watch it as a late night flick.

This movie is a wonderful family movie. It helps you to understand that be careful how you say things in anger and then depart without saying you're sorry. You never know when it will be the last time before life tragically ends. The movie had to powerful lead actors as the parents.(Michael Learned & Richard Chamberlian. That a family even though they are going through their own grief that they come together in the time of crisis to show the true love they have for each other. It is graphic but it is reality of how cruel criminals can be. If you ever get a chance to watch this move of love and a family determination to bring their son and brother through a tragic act of violence, to regain his life. Hopefully it will come to video or DVD soon.