Reviews

I give "The Ghost Of Flight 401" (Based on the book by John Fuller) a 10-star rating based on hearing these stories first-hand. Having been a Flight Attendant with Eastern Air Lines for well over seven years (1980 to early 1988), I can state with confidence that this Emmy Nominated, Made-For-TV Movie (1978) gives an accurate portrayal of these fateful events -- not to mention those who experienced the situation first-hand.

The sets are excellent. I liked working on the L-1011 for the lower-galley, which is accurately portrayed (set-wise) in the film. The aircraft cabin is equally impressive. Everything for which an experienced crew member can find fault in the usual "airplane" movie is covered here with accuracy and attention to detail. Other sets include the homes of employees, not to mention the offices of our once-beloved Eastern Air Lines. Although not a carbon copy of our Corporate Offices, the sets provide a believable backdrop to both story line and characters alike.

As for Character Depth, the actors portray those involved with a genuine sense of suspense, worry and concern for what is happening to them. This is refreshing, seeing as another TV Movie based on these events proved to be nothing short of a prime time Soap Opera. In "The Ghost Of Flight 401," you feel what the characters feel. It is a realistic portrayal of the fear and fascination these people experienced in dealing with said events.

No spoilers here...you have to see this one for yourself. Very well done from the aspect of one who flew with and heard stories from those who experienced these events first-hand. Fantastic as the events may seem, it was real to the actual people involved. Well produced, the film takes you along for the ride. One thing is for sure: "The Ghost Of Flight 401" will definitely have you on the edge of your seat. Much like the book -- a real page-turner -- you can't help but wonder what will happen next.

Great entertainment all the way around the board.

A 10-star rating goes out to "A Brand New Life," the Emmy Winning, Made-For-TV movie based on the events surrounding a middle-aged couple who discover they will soon have a child.

One cannot watch this film without coming away with a genuine respect for the characters involved. Of course, Cloris Leachman, who won an Emmy Award for "Outstanding Single Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role," is astounding as the middle-aged mother-to-be. Martin Balsam, who plays her husband, is equally excellent in his role. The sets, story-line and musical arrangements provide interest and feeling for the characters involved.

A nod goes out to Karen Philipp, who received a TV Guide write-up entitled "Expertly Played By Karen Philipp" for her role as "Sarah White." Former vocalist for Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66, "A Brand New Life" proves that Karen has more than a way with song. She is an excellent actor as well. The depth with which she handles this role is astounding. "Well done" would hardly describe the supporting role she plays in this wonderful, emotional film.

All in all, "A Brand New Life" leaves you with a feeling that you have lived through this experience with the characters involved -- you literally become lost in the story -- the mark of a well-made film.

From the standpoint of quality, you can't get much better than "A Brand New Life." The story flows, the actors breathe life into the characters portrayed. This is what middle-aged couples experience on learning they are to become parents. The film is so well done, so well directed and moves so quickly, you feel a genuine sense of care and concern for those involved.

Do yourself and favor and check out "A Brand New Life." If anything, you will gain a new respect for the challenges faced by middle-aged people on the verge of parenthood. What's more, you'll feel good for having done so.