Heimkehr einer Fremden

"Strangers: The Story of a Mother and Daughter" is a made for TV movie with a plot very similar to "Terms of Endearment", which came out a few years later. However, while I didn't particularly enjoy the latter movie, I really thought this made for TV film was terrific...and the acting was so incredibly real and honest.

The story begins with Abigail (Gena Rowlands) arriving unannounced on her mother's doorstep. Now, considering that they haven't talked or communicated for years, it's a surprise. And, when Lucy (Bette Davis) lets her in the house, she refuses to speak to her for some time. During this painful silence, Abigail reacts by talking and talking. Finally, an avalanche of hate, anger and hurt come pouring out of Lucy...and she tells her she wants her to leave. But Abigail refuses...and the next few days are painful. Why would she stay when he clearly isn't wanted? Well, it turns out Abigail is dying...and she wants to mend fences with her mom and find a place to die.

The story is depressing...that can't be denied. But the acting by both Rowlands and Davis is wonderful...uncompromising and honest. It's really a treat to see two such terrific actresses and instead of trying to upstage each other, they complemented each other well. It also helped that there was a terrific script. Well worth seeing...and a film to see with some Kleenex nearby.