Pictures of Hollis Woods
on CBS
By Adam Shuler
The Hallmark Hall of Fame
has always proven to be a great source for storytelling appropriate for the
entire family. This approach has not waned even in today’s questionable
prime-time culture. On December 2nd, CBS aired Pictures of Hollis Woods,
the 231st installment in the venerable series. It is no surprise that
this broadcast earns our Best of the Week.
Based on a book by Patricia
Reilly Giff, the story centers on Hollis Woods, who was abandoned when she was
one hour old. She has traversed from one foster home to another on a seemingly
endless journey of loneliness. Now 12 years old, her current arrangements land
her with Josie Cahill, an endearing woman who suffers from Alzheimer’s. As
Hollis learns from and is inspired by Josie, she seeks to find a family she
regrets running away from, and who may be her one chance for true happiness.
Pictures of Hollis Woods
is an excellent example of
the power of human connection. Hollis lives with a shattered, impersonal past
and Josie lives with a crippling disease. Despite their hardships, the two share
a close bond. Hollis, in particular, finally feels loved and learns to confront
her fears about facing hardships. Her relationship with the Reagan family, shown
in flashbacks, is an inspiring example of unconditional love and the healing
effects it has on the human spirit. These reasons and more make Pictures of
Hollis Woods the Best of the Week.
Best TV Show
of the Week
The Parents
Television Council -
www.parentstv.org
New to the PTC?
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