Where the Heart Is
Where the Heart Is was an American soap opera telecast on the CBS television network from September 8, 1969 to March 23, 1973. Created by Lou Scofield and Margaret DePriest, the program ran for 25 minutes, the remaining five minutes of its timeslot ceded to a CBS news break. Scofield and DePriest were the original head writers. A year after the soap’s premiere, they were succeeded by Pat Falken Smith. In 1972, Smith was replaced by Claire Labine and Paul Avila Mayer. The series was produced by Tom Donovan and directed by Richard Dunlap.
Insights
Plot Summary
A widowed mother of three children, who lives in a ramshackle house in rural South Carolina, struggles to maintain her family's dignity and independence amidst poverty and societal pressures. As her children grow, they face their own challenges and desires, leading to conflicts and the eventual dispersal of the family. The narrative explores themes of resilience, family bonds, and the search for belonging in a changing world.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, 'Where the Heart Is' received a mixed to positive reception from critics. While some praised its emotional depth and strong performances, particularly from Burt Reynolds and Tuesday Weld, others found its pacing uneven and its narrative somewhat conventional for the era. Audiences generally responded well to the film's heartfelt portrayal of family struggles and its Southern setting.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its authentic portrayal of Southern life and strong acting.
- Some critics found the story to be somewhat melodramatic and predictable.
- The film's emotional core resonated with many viewers.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this specific title is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on location in Beaufort, South Carolina, and many of the local residents were cast as extras, adding to the film's authentic atmosphere.
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