Why so much hype?

Absolutely Fantastic

Fun premise, good actors, bad writing. This film seemed to have potential at the beginning but it quickly devolves into a trite action film. Ultimately it's very boring.

The story, direction, characters, and writing/dialogue is akin to taking a tranquilizer shot to the neck, but everything else was so well done.

I have seen this film more than any other film ever made, because I need to see it. It is to be shown tomorrow evening at a local AA meeting, as it usually is on New Year's Eve. I can probably recite most of the dialog from memory.Most people who have entered rehab have probably been shown this film, since it is such a well-acted, concise version of Bill Wilson's story. For those unfamiliar with Alcoholics Anonymous, this film is a must. For those in the fellowship (if any of us haven't seen it), it is also a must, and moving experience.Fritz Weaver, who plays Lois Wilson's father (Dr. Burnham) in the film, is a much-unsung actor. Perhaps he is best remembered as the wayward Colonel Cascio in "Fail Safe" (1964) and also as the physician in another James Woods film, "Holocaust" (1978). Also, it was in this film that first I saw the amazing Gary Sinise (Ebby Thatcher, Bill's sobriety mentor), who went on to do my favorite version of Harry Truman, and also shined as "Colonel Dan" in "Forrest Gump" opposite Tom Hanks.

A wonderful heartfelt story of the founding of AA, focusing on the life of Bill Wilson both before and after recovery. Here James Woods gives an amazingly vulnerable performance as a man who cannot get sober and it is one of his best. The rendition of the founding of AA comes across as true due to its understatement. No apocalyptic two by fours, almost an accidental discovery of the way out of a seemingly impossible state of mind and body. Very moving and believable. Kudos to all involved. A masterpiece. 8 out of 10.

This movie carries a great message, and I was deeply touched by the story of the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous. It's an important historic treasure being preserved in a true and respectful film. The story is straightforward and strong and gives and honest impression of the pioneers of AA. Let this movie carry the message too.. There is a solution.. ;-) If you liked this one - watch "Pay it forward" - a wonderful movie with a similar theme.

James Woods gives a terrific performance as Bill Wilson, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. JoBeth Williams matches Woods as his loving but beleaguered wife. It is one of the best performances of her career. James Garner has a rather small role but as always he is terrific. This is just an inspiring film, one of the better made for tv movies.