Powerful movie for the entire family. Patricia Arquette is very believable as an abused and love starved child. Beau Bridges performance and transition is believable and touching. We have worn out two VHS copies. I only wish this made for TV movie was available in DVD format.

This is the first movie I'd ever seen Reese Witherspoon in. She convincingly played a cute and curious little girl, which compelled me to see her future projects.I was only about 11 or 12 when I saw this film on TV. I watched it several times, though, because my mom taped it. I didn't quite understand WHY I liked the movie so much, except that the actors all have great chemistry. Though I must've felt it then, I was too young to realize the deeply sensual and subtle eroticism the plot rested on. It is also nonetheless a very heartfelt and coming-of-age film.

I would watch this movie everyday if i could! It is a totally wonderful story! William McNamara, Reese Witherspoon and Patricia Arquette did an excellent job! The love that develops between Sammy and Alice is so beautiful! I only wish that there would be a sequel something to add to this already wonderful movie!

This could easily have been a pilot for a drama series, or the basis for a mini-series. I liked the family (with the dashing Reese Witherspoon really at the head of it). Beau's change in the movie is a little drastic, but all in all it's a touching sensitive, wonderfully directed television movie (by the always great actress Diane Keaton). These stories are what tv movies are made for. Lastly- it may be a little too long.