8/10
Great Romantic Tragedy Despite Low TV Budget.
7 September 2008
Warning: Spoilers
I got the DVD because I wanted to see more Amanda Peet after watching 'Something's Got To Give'. I must say it was worth the cost. I was mesmerized by Amanda as the repressed and depressed Sarah Phoenix.

Sarah Phoenix has been dumped by her previous lover and is now facing her death without much emotional support from anyone. She talks to her mother on the telephone, but has obviously not revealed how precarious is her health.

Dermot Mulroney really came across as the workaholic Griffin who has to face his approaching death without the support of the family he ignored too long. Dermot managed to convey his inner turmoil with nothing more than his expressions and body language.

Griffin and Phoenix meet at a college lecture on death and dying and they feel an immediate attraction. Phoenix tries to dismiss Griffin's advances, but eventually starts to allow him into her heart. Part of her reluctance is the pain of her previous romantic breakup, but more pressing is her depression at her declining health.

It was amazing to watch the personal growth of Griffin as he emerged from his shell to cherish his new love through the difficult and painful experience of her terminal illness. We get to see the new couple find a way to live the best days of their lives during the most difficult and painful experience they will ever face. Even in the midst of his own problems Griffin can reach out to support someone else in time of need.

One thing puzzled me in the film. Phoenix has had a sudden decline in her health and is admitted to the hospital for probably her final few days of life. Where is her mother? Surely, Sarah would not keep her mother in the dark at such a difficult time in her life.

The film finale just tore at my emotions. I have grown to know and admire Phoenix. The early Christmas Griffin provides Phoenix is at once precious and painful to watch. The love between these two dying people is made so real that I hated to watch the view fade out to the screen credits.

This TV movie was far superior to many higher budget efforts that actually received theater screening. The two lead actors really surpassed anything else I have seen them in. I never tire of watching this film.
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