THE RYAN WHITE STORY

THE RYAN WHITE STORY

THE RYAN WHITE STORY = A 

Exceptionally good for a late 1980's made for television film. Based on the real life events of Ryan White, who after contracting AIDS from blood transfusions, took on the Indiana School Board to fight a ruling so that he could attend school again. 

It's a touching story, well written, well directed and well acted. Like a good recipe, that has neither too much nor too little ingredients, but just the right amount for the perfect taste, the script had enough to tell the story compellingly without becoming melodramatic.

I found myself at times, wanting to go through the television so I could protect Ryan. So I could stick up for him. The actors did a great job creating empathy for their situation. I cannot imagine what it would be like to have to tell a child, especially your own child that he had AIDS. I don't think I could sit back and handle someone attacking my child as viciously and heartlessly as he was attacked. I felt so horrible for the mom. I'd have a hard enough time in such a situation watching an adult call any kid a "fag" but if it were my own kid? Someone would probably spend the day at the dentist and I'd spend a night in jail.

It was fun seeing Judith Light in a role other than as Angela in WHO'S THE BOSS.

I'd like to think in such a situation I'd be the Harley character, and my only complaint about the script is that Michael Bowen didn't have a bigger role.

The Late George C Scott was amazing as the lawyer. It makes me wonder if the real life Lawyer was as kickass as he was in the film.

Sarah Jessica Parker has a small, but memorable role as does Mitch Ryan. And by the way? Does he ever age? I swear he turned 50 in 1984, and hasn't aged since.

Lastly I'll say that I think it is awesome that John Herzfeld gave the real life Ryan White a part in the film as Chad.

And Thumbs up to Elton John, John Mellencamp and Michael Jackson for donating music for the film