not as good and Paul Newman version, but still very entertaining

Posted by lynique on Aug 23rd 2019

Of course, no one could help comparing this made-for-TV film with the classic Paul Newman/Joanne Woodward version, but I liked this movie's expanded storyline (shown in two parts on TV). It was fun to see how much the same and how very different were the characters portrayed. The main role of Ben Quick was excellently and flawlessly played by Don Johnson, and in fact, I liked the touch of vulnerability that Johnson added, different from Paul Newman's hard core tough guy. Most of the other roles were wonderfully played, too. The only thing wrong was the character of Clara. Judith Ivey is woefully miscast here. She is a fine actress and I've enjoyed her in other things, but she did not fit the image of a feisty but soft spoken Southern lady. The character of a big city lawyer or office manager comes to mind -- tough as nails boss. Not right for Clara. I think it's a tribute to Johnson that he could make the love story part of the plot work. Aside from that one quibble, enjoyed the movie very much, and I recommend it.