When the Circus Came to Town
When the Circus Came to Town

When the Circus Came to Town

1981Movie120 minEnglish

When the Circus Came to Town chronicles the life of Mary Flynn (Montgomery), a woman nearing middle age living in a small town. When the circus comes through town, she realizes nothing will ever change unless she does something different, so she leaves her boring sheltered life to run away and join the circus. While adapting to her new life, she finds herself challenged, and in the end, happy with her new life.

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IMDb6.1/10
Director: Robert Michael LewisGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

A lonely, eccentric woman living in a small Oklahoma town takes in a traveling circus troupe after their train derails nearby. She develops a close bond with the troupe's owner and his younger, troubled lover. As the circus prepares to leave, she must confront her isolation and decide if she will let them go or try to keep them with her.

Critical Reception

This made-for-television drama received a mixed to positive reception, particularly praised for Elizabeth Taylor's performance. While some critics found the plot somewhat predictable, many appreciated the exploration of themes like loneliness, community, and the search for belonging.

What Reviewers Say

  • Elizabeth Taylor delivers a compelling performance as a lonely woman finding unexpected connection.
  • The film explores themes of isolation and the transient nature of relationships with a gentle touch.
  • Despite some conventional storytelling, the emotional core resonates with viewers.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this older made-for-television film, but where available, viewers often highlight Elizabeth Taylor's impactful portrayal and the film's sentimental exploration of human connection and found families.

Fun Fact

Elizabeth Taylor's role as Sarah Bracher was one of her last major television appearances, showcasing her continued talent in dramatic roles late in her career.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
Wuchak

Wuchak

**_Elizabeth Montgomery joins a traveling circus_** When a small circus stops in Savannah, a bored 40-ish spinster (Montgomery) decides to enlist on a lark. Christopher Plummer plays the owner/ringleader while Eileen Brennan and Tommy Ma...