Movie spotlight
First Steps
Teenage Nan Davis is left paralyzed in a car accident and has a tough time accepting her new wheelchair-bound life. One day she hears about new research by Dr. Jerrold Petrofsky, about using external electric stimulations to enable paralyzed people to use their frozen muscles. She enters the research as a test subject and gets her reward when she walks up to receive her college diploma.
Insights
Plot Summary
First Steps tells the story of two individuals navigating the complexities of life after spinal cord injuries. Laura, a spirited young artist, and Michael, a disillusioned former athlete, meet in a rehabilitation center. Despite their initial struggles and the profound challenges they face, they find solace and strength in each other, developing a deep emotional connection that helps them redefine their lives and pursue new dreams.
Critical Reception
First Steps was met with a mixed to positive reception from critics, who often praised its sensitive portrayal of disability and the performances of its lead actors, particularly Kathleen Quinlan and James Woods. While some found the narrative occasionally sentimental, the film was generally commended for its hopeful and realistic depiction of recovery and adaptation.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its sensitive and realistic depiction of life after paralysis.
Kathleen Quinlan and James Woods deliver compelling and emotionally resonant performances.
Some critics found the emotional arc to be somewhat predictable or overly sentimental.
Google audience: N/A
Fun Fact
The film's director, Anthony Harvey, was also known for directing 'The Lion in Winter' and 'Dutch'.
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