I had never heard of this movie before, but thanks to my religion class I was able to see this little made for TV movie. Based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Mitch Albom, Tuesdays with Morrie chronicles the true story of Morrie Shwartz (Jack Lemmon), a college professor who is hit with ALS (or Lou Gehrig's Disease). Mitch Albom (Hank Azaria) is an old student of Morrie who promised to keep in touch with him when he graduated. He never did. When Mitch catches Morrie's story on TV he decides to visit him. However, this turns into a weekly visit in which Morrie teaches Mitch about life and everything in it (from marriage, to fear and to death).
Hank Azaria and Jack Lemmon are both outstanding in their roles and they both have great on-screen chemistry. Likewise, the supporting actors are all fine. Unfortunately, I found this film was hindered by the sappiness of some of the teachings and the predictable use of music and visuals (snow, rain, autumn leaves) to try and get the audience to cry. To me, it seems weird but I got the feeling that they were trying too hard to force out my emotions. Furthermore, the ending was rushed and not enough time was spent with the after-effects of Morrie's death.
Having said all that, it was still a well-made TV movie with some deep messages and two rather excellent performances.
3/5
Hank Azaria and Jack Lemmon are both outstanding in their roles and they both have great on-screen chemistry. Likewise, the supporting actors are all fine. Unfortunately, I found this film was hindered by the sappiness of some of the teachings and the predictable use of music and visuals (snow, rain, autumn leaves) to try and get the audience to cry. To me, it seems weird but I got the feeling that they were trying too hard to force out my emotions. Furthermore, the ending was rushed and not enough time was spent with the after-effects of Morrie's death.
Having said all that, it was still a well-made TV movie with some deep messages and two rather excellent performances.
3/5