Timepiece

This 1996 TV film is based on a novel of the same title and year by Richard Paul Evans. It's supposed to be a prequel to his 1995 best-seller, "The Christmas Box," which also was made into a TV movie that year.

This is a powerful story of love between a man and woman, of love between friends, of brotherly love and respect between people, and the love that is forgiveness and compassion. The film has an excellent plot and cast. The screenplay and directing at times seem a little stilted, and at other times hesitant or uncertain. And, some of the acting seems a little wooden at times. Otherwise it's a very good story with good acting all around.

I wonder if the ending doesn't catch many by surprise.

There no doubt are some who would not agree with what happens with Mary and David Parkin at the end. And probably very few who would do what they did. Yet this is a powerful scene that strikes right at heart of what it means to love. It shows how real love overcomes the bitterness of anger and revenge. And, how such love then replaces sorrow with joy.

A very fine story, indeed. And a fitting film for any Christmas movie library.