I did not see this film when it aired on TV back in the 80s. However, it IS available to see through Netflix--and I strongly recommend you see it...and have a box of tissues handy. It's an exceptionally well made film--one that can't help but touch your heart.
Jerry Lewis stars in this drama. As I've seen him in dramatic roles over the years (such as in "King of Comedy" and his stint on the show "Wise Guy"), I've noticed that although he's known as a comedian, I really think his forte is drama. He was brilliant in "Fight for Life"--very touching and with an honest emotional range. It's a darn shame he didn't do more roles like these.
Lewis and his wife (Patty Duke) play parents who are beside themselves with fear. It seems their young daughter has a very extreme case of epilepsy but conventional treatment won't help. As a result, the child has 15 seizures a day--and this is beginning to cause her to suffer long-term brain damage. The prognosis is horrible--and she's expected to become severely intellectually impaired if something isn't done soon. However, there is some hope--a drug that is used in Europe probably will help. BUT, it's not an FDA-approved drug, they simply cannot get it. What are they to do--let their child waste away to nothing or fight with every bit of energy within them to advocate for their child? Not surprisingly, they fight....but will it be a case of too little, too late?
This is a very touching drama--one you can't watch without it affecting you. As I said above, see this with some tissues--as it is effective but also heart-wrenching. Exceptional acting (not just by Lewis but by his supporting actors as well) and writing make this well worth your time--particularly if you have kids. See this one.
