mark.waltz I've always compared death to leaving town. There are sad goodbyes, but there is also that promise of "Till we meet again". Jack Lemmon, an aging retired professor, is dying of ASL and the profile of him on TV gets the attention of one of his self proclaimed favorite students (Hank Azaria). Even though it's been 16 years, Lemmon recognizes him immediately and demands a hug. He begins to share his fears, his regrets, his triumphs and his desires for those last days. Bonnie Bartlett, his positive attitude filled wife, shares his strengths, while it takes Azaria finds the whole subject of mortality out of his grasp. "I've been young. I know how miserable it is to be young", Lemmon says in one of his many philosophical moments, and after a while, you want to begin to write them down and share them. The subject of death isn't quite the conversation you most likely won't have over lunch or cocktails, but ultimately, it's one that should be shared...before its too late. So young and dashing in the 1950's, cynical and world weary in the 1960's and '70s, alternately cranky or wise afterwards. That was the career of Jack Lemmon, and by this time, he was one of the most beloved veterans still working. His screen presence is as passionate here as it was when he threw Cagney's palm tree overboard in "Mister Roberts". Hank Azaria, completely different than anything I've ever seen him in, is getting a master's class, and how I would like to be in his shores, listening to Lemmon's stories, both as Morrie and Jack.Flashbacks to Morrie's youth are profound and poignant. This is a story, not just about accepting death, but realizing how important you must cherish every moment of life. It does get very intense every now and then, but one thing it avoids is being preachy. The biggest lesson Azaria learns is that when you help others, you really help yourself.

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

Judy Rogers I found this to be a really touching, sensitive film. Morrie's words of wisdom will stay with me for a long time. Thank you to everyone concerned in the making of this film, beautifully acted and highlighted the benefits of playing life as it is. Morrie was a true star. A real coach. So often actors pay lip service to the theme of the play, that is why they are good actors. In this case I got the feeling that I was there, that the events were happening in front of my eyes, so sensitive was the fine tuning of each character. So often these issues are swept under the carpet and we distance ourselves from pain. This film, a work of art, was a lesson to us all to live for today. Celebrate our lives in this beautiful world. Every moment is precious.

gloryasong Saw this film twice and each time was very touched by the characters. Jack Lemmon is a master actor and portrays Morrie beautifully. Hank Azaria is incredible! His sense of timing, his expressions, his body language is so completely in touch with his character. My respect for this actor is heartfelt. The direction on this film is excellent. I particularly like the use of close-ups. This makes for the actors believability, and brings the viewer into their thoughts. The lighting is excellent. I liked the scene where Mitch is graduating and hugging Morrie. The "early morning" light creates a sense of reverie, and brings back their youthfulness. I walked away from this film with much pondering.Thank you!!