A Step Toward Tomorrow

This is an exceptional movie. I usually am wary of Judith Light and her tearful performances. She is always crying in every film she makes. But here is one where you'd think the tears would be gushing. But they aren't. Either the director watched her carefully or she did this on her own. Where there could have been crying jags, there wasn't. As though she felt the focus should be on her children. Good for you, Judith. Both boys were well played. Beautifully played.

The moment for me was in seeing Christopher Reeve in the small role of a wheelchair bound man who helped the young boy understand he wasn't alone. This film was shown a day after Mr. Reeve's passing. So, to this viewer, it had much more profound depth in it's message. For surely, Mr. Reeve spent his lasting years in trying to bring attention to us all as to the needs to those stricken with this paralysis. It was bittersweet and very hard to watch at times. My heart goes out to the Reeve family in their loss. I applaud the message being told in this film and the courage Christopher Reeve lived to his final days.

Judith Light is wholly believable as a fiercely loving divorced mother trying desperately to find help for her younger son, paralyzed after a diving accident. James Welch Henderson Arkansas 4/12/21.

"A Step Toward Tomorrow," directed by Deborah Reinisch, is a poignant and heartfelt drama that explores the transformative power of love, loss, and resilience. Released in 1996, the film follows the journey of Mike, a driven and ambitious businessman whose life is forever changed by a devastating accident.

At the center of the story is Mike, portrayed with depth and vulnerability by the late Christopher Reeve. Once a successful and confident entrepreneur, Mike's world is shattered when a tragic accident leaves him paralyzed from the waist down. Forced to confront his new reality, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and redemption, grappling with the physical and emotional challenges of his condition.

Reeve delivers a powerful and nuanced performance, capturing the complexities of Mike's character with empathy and authenticity. As he navigates the highs and lows of his rehabilitation process, viewers are drawn into his struggles and triumphs, rooting for his eventual acceptance and healing.

The film also explores the impact of Mike's accident on his relationships with those closest to him, including his wife, played by Kimberly Williams-Paisley, and his best friend, portrayed by Jeffrey Nordling. Through their interactions, "A Step Toward Tomorrow" delves into themes of love, loyalty, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

One of the film's greatest strengths lies in its portrayal of the rehabilitation process and the challenges faced by individuals living with disabilities. Through Mike's journey, viewers gain insight into the physical and emotional toll of paralysis, as well as the importance of perseverance and support in overcoming obstacles.

"A Step Toward Tomorrow" is also notable for its sensitive handling of sensitive themes, including disability and loss. Rather than succumbing to sentimentality, the film approaches these topics with honesty and dignity, offering a realistic portrayal of the struggles faced by individuals living with disabilities.

In conclusion, "A Step Toward Tomorrow" is a moving and thought-provoking film that resonates with themes of hope, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. With its compelling performances, heartfelt storytelling, and powerful message of redemption, it is a timeless testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

"A Step Toward Tomorrow" is excellent and certainly should be immediately released to DVD and video! I only recently had the chance to view this film and it is a gem among the hum-drum of most made-for-TV films. Judith Light and Christopher Reeve are the talented professionals we have come to expect and appreciate, and Kendall Cunningham and Tim Redwine--the child actors--are incredible talents that dazzle with moving emotion throughout the feature.

I have read a lot of negative reviews for this film; usually centering on the technical aspects of this film that weren't exactly correct. All films have flaws! The gift of this film is that it does an outstanding job--in the roles of Redwine and Cunningham--of showcases the delimma of anyone who is different--bound to a wheelchair, dyslexic, heart condition, etc.--the appreciation of understanding and help we receive from our family and friends, and the desire to do for ourselves and be our own person. The fact that this telefilm has the ability to capture that very difficult piece of life makes it a top picture in my book. This film should be used in the classroom!

Does anyone know if this movie is based on a true story? I have seen it twice and it is inspirational. It is a great example that shows what a mother wouldn't do for their child. This also includes fathers who have to play dual roles as both father and mother. I thank you if you can find out the answer to my question. I have spinal conditions, endo (it won't allow me to spell out this disease), and chronic pain due from them. I run and CO-run support groups both Online and Offline for spinal conditions, endo, chronic pain, and also eating disorders. I am here for anyone who need support. Again, I thank you and I wish everyone well.