Tuesdays with Morrie - 9 stars out of 10

Tuesdays with Morrie - 9 stars out of 10

This is much more than a made-for-tv movie.  Both the book and the film "Tuesdays with Morrie" are a very touching account of how author Mitch Albom learned how to live through the slow death of his former college professor, Morrie.  Hank Azaria, always associated with The Simpsons, proves himself as a gifted dramatic actor.  His portrayal of Albom is raw and dramatic, as he evolves from a workaholic drone to a caring human.  Jack Lemmon acts with wonderful subtlety as Lou Gehrig's Disease slowly eliminates each function of his body.  His words are inspirational and by the end of the film, Lemmon will have every audience member hoping to a be a Morrie someday.  Keeping pace with the leads, Wendy Moniz is fabulous.  Her singing is beautiful while her strong acting legitimizes the emotional evolution of Azaria.  This film does not contain any sophistocated special effects or expensive parlor tricks - it is simply outstanding emotional acting in an incredible true story.