Little John (2002) Parent Guide

The Chinese symbol for crisis is made up of two figures: one stands for danger, the other for opportunity. Or so says the Catholic sister from the unwed mother’s shelter who first informs John Morgan (Ving Rhames) of his daughter’s decision to give her baby up for adoption.

Having had no communication with Natalie (Gloria Reubens) since he learned of her undesirable position, the heartbroken and disappointed parent is offered a new way to look at the situation when the nun suggests he raise the infant, rather than have the child lost from their family forever.

Over the next twelve years a happy and rewarding relationship grows between the grandfather and Little John (Robert Bailey Jr.), although they know nothing of the mother’s whereabouts. Then fate, in the form of a newspaper clipping, reveals the estranged woman has become a family court judge in California. At the same time, health problems are beginning to plague the aging caregiver. Fearing his time may be running out, John resolves to find his daughter and introduce her to the son she left behind.

The drive from their Texan ranch to the bustling streets of Los Angeles is not with out difficulties, but these prove less daunting than trying to arranging a meeting with the judicial official who is determined to keep her troubled past under lock and key.

Pride and accusations block the road to reconciliation and forgiveness in this compelling Hallmark: Hall of Fame presentation. While messages of letting go of grudges, and binding old wounds with strong family ties are abundant, Natalie’s work and the story touch on some mature issues, such as unwanted pregnancies, abandonment, child abuse, and violence against women, making the movie more appropriate for older audiences. The script also allows the characters to discuss these difficult topics as they chose to face even the most painful disclosures with honesty, instead of hiding them in a vain attempt to protect or hurt one another.

This crisis will require all three family members to put their hearts in danger if they want the opportunity to begin the healing process.

About author

Donna Gustafson

Donna Gustafson has been involved with her husband Rod's work since the beginning. Handling many of the behind-the-scenes tasks, she also creates preview pages for up-coming movies, acts as managing editor and occasionally writes reviews.