Evergreen

Lesley Ann Warren comes to America, after losing her Polish-Jewish parents. She meets Jewish working-man Armand Assante who works as a painter but is looking to start his own business. She finds a position as a maid in a prominent man's (Ian McShane) household. But soon they start to have feelings for each other, that is, until he abruptly marries a socialite. Heartbroken, she marries Armand and they have a child. Suh begins the story of "Evergreen," based on the novel by Belva Plain. This was shown in 1985 in three parts and that's how I watched it. Part I seemed to be rather slow with more talking than action. But Part II picks up the plot. Armand tries to stay faithful to his heritage while raising children and Lesley still longs for the rich man. But other characters add to it - Ron Rifkin who needs money desperately from Armand and Brian Dennehy as a coworker of Armand's. Lesley and Armand's children grow up with their own minds, fighting against their father's beliefs. But "Evergreen" exemplifies a hope, a dream that one's faith is stronger than anything life brings you. All of the stars were good, and, as the whole production progressed, the emotional ties were stronger and the people become more and more real to the viewer. This TV- movie, which comes full circle in the end, had more understated passion and longing than I've ever seen in a while. "Evergreen" is a rare TV-movie, forgotten by many, loved by a few.