LoneWolfAndCub
I had never heard of this movie before, but thanks to my religion class I was able to see this little made for TV movie. Based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Mitch Albom, Tuesdays with Morrie chronicles the true story of Morrie Shwartz (Jack Lemmon), a college professor who is hit with ALS (or Lou Gehrig's Disease). Mitch Albom (Hank Azaria) is an old student of Morrie who promised to keep in touch with him when he graduated. He never did. When Mitch catches Morrie's story on TV he decides to visit him. However, this turns into a weekly visit in which Morrie teaches Mitch about life and everything in it (from marriage, to fear and to death).Hank Azaria and Jack Lemmon are both outstanding in their roles and they both have great on-screen chemistry. Likewise, the supporting actors are all fine. Unfortunately, I found this film was hindered by the sappiness of some of the teachings and the predictable use of music and visuals (snow, rain, autumn leaves) to try and get the audience to cry. To me, it seems weird but I got the feeling that they were trying too hard to force out my emotions. Furthermore, the ending was rushed and not enough time was spent with the after-effects of Morrie's death.Having said all that, it was still a well-made TV movie with some deep messages and two rather excellent performances.3/5
films_r_forver
This movie does the book justice! Being one who just loves this book, i was skeptical as to whether the movie would do it justice! Both Jack Lemmon and Hank Azaria do a brilliant job and it is just such a beautiful movie! Lemmon is absolutely perfect for the role of wise, old Morrie, whom is just so lovable in this role. All of life's greatest lessons can be learned from watching this and it really captures the essence of life and friendship itself. Really moving, thought provoking and touching. Keep a box of tissues handy, because the tears will be streaming all through it!!A simply beautiful movie that will change your view on life and really teach you what it means to be living!!
mOVIemAN56
Tuesdays With Morrie is the kind of movie you never hear about. You simply stumble upon it when going through the TV guide or just flipping through channels. At first I just wanted to see what one of Jack Lemmon's last performances would be like but I ended up watching the movie for what it was. I personally am glad I was able to catch and watch all of Tuesdays with Morrie. It really has touched me in a way and caused me to look at life in a new picture and with a new attitude.Set in 1995, Mitch Albom has a pretty hectic life. He's a sports writer for the Detroit Free Press who must find time to travel across the eastern coast for his job and manage time for his girl friend who is having doubts on their relationship. His life seems to take a halt however when he learns his mentor from college is dying of ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease). Mitch decides to visit him and begins doing so every Tuesday where Morrie tells him a lesson on life and what to never fear in it.Hank Azaria was only known to me as the man who did Apu's voice on the Simpsons. I never thought I'd see him in a movie, let alone an important and serious film such as Tuesdays with Morrie. He really does show an acting ability that is never shown in The Simpsons (though it is clear his voice acting is clear in that). I was easily able to look past the comedian that is Hank Azaria and see Mitch Albom, a man with too much going on for him.Jack Lemmon.... May he rest in peace. Such a tremendous actor and yet again he was able to show his incredible ability as Morrie Schwartz. He kind of gives off the clearly human persona that was needed for Morrie. When I picture the real Morrie Schwartz (and yes he was a real man who did die of ALS in 1995) I picture a man who is trying to make the best of a clearly heart rendering situation and destructive disease. Lemmon's performance carries the film to how good it ended up being and was a great way for him go out on (though I personally wish he was still around). The movie casts a lot of important messages about life and relationships. Almost everything important comes from Morrie but Mitch is used as the man who will reflect these 'lectures' that Morrie gives. You come to understand through the movie to not be afraid of things that aren't worth being afraid of. Morrie was sometimes upset but not often and he was always looking to the bright side of things and always looking to help and teach. The message is one that all who are afraid in life should listen to.Tuesdays With Morrie is better than your average TV-movie. It has a serious message, strong acting, strong storyline, and top actors to support it. I hope to find this on DVD so I can always have the film to show to people so that they can understand the message behind the film without it ever getting preachy.3.5/5 stars
NoCreamNoSugar
Hank Azaria's role is horribly stereotypical. He goes from ruthless soulless guy to I-love-life guy. Vapid, heavy-handed film. They beat you over the head with middle-school symbolism (his ignoring the telephone while in the middle of playing piano).If you want to see real genuine characters with multifaceted personalities, watch Glengarry Glen Ross. I seem to recall Lemmon stating that it was the finest cast he ever worked with. Go see why.