Tutta una vita

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.

Marvelous recounting of this wonderful heartbreaking story in a television movie.

Armand Assante is absolutely magnificent in the role of an Orthodox Jewish man, Joseph Friedman. Kudos to the people who worked with him in depicting such orthodoxy. Equally good is Lesley Ann Warren as his long-suffering wife.

The film deals with the Friedmans life in America. They suffer 2 tragedies that no family should ever be made to bear. In addition, Mrs. Friedman (Warren) harbors a secret too outrageous to mention in an orthodox community.

A definite story of the human spirit, intermarriage when the orthodox are affected, and adversity beyond human belief. Truly outstanding and fabulously done. This film should be shown again.

I just found out today that there was a miniseries of Evergreen that aired on NBC back in 1985. If I had known that I would have taped it. Belva Plain is my favorite author and I have read Evergreen about 5 times and several of her other books. I would love to see the miniseries and I have checked online for a VHS copy and can't find one. I don't know of any off brand store that sells old or used videos If anyone out there knows how I can get a copy of the VHS, or if anyone happened to tape the miniseries back in 1985, I would appreciate it if you would contact me and let me know how I can get a copy from you. Thank you.

Evergreen is one of my all-time favorites. I am also a fan of Ian McShane. Like many others, I have been unable to obtain a copy of this film, Would love to see it again so that I can watch it over and over.

I saw Evergreen on TV one time about ten years ago and never forgot it. I have been looking for it everywhere so I can buy it. It is beautifully written, beautifully photographed, and amazingly acted out. Get your coffee or tea, something to eat, and settle in. It takes you to another place and time...especially considering it is now 2005 and rare for a movie to tell a thoroughly moving story that remains consistent and true to itself.

This is a movie worth giving to someone who loves romance. It is worth giving to yourself. I am glad I have finally found someplace to get Evergreen. It is a treasure and worth every minute you spend watching it. Hopefully, one day, it will be re-run here in the United States so others may discover it.