The Magical World of Disney (TV Series) The Thanksgiving Promise (1986) User Reviews

Heartfelt, enjoyable movie. Wish they would show it again on TV.

[Gemini1953 · 31 March 2004]

I saw this movie on TV when it first came out (before I owned a VCR or I would have taped it). Beau Bridges' real life son, Jason, plays one of three teenage sons who is having some life/school problems. The title comes from the son being given money by a neighbor to raise a young Canada Goose the neighbor (played by Lloyd Bridges) found on the road. The teenager is to feed and be responsible for the goose, then when Thanksgiving comes, to kill it for the neighbor to have for Thanksgiving dinner. This is the boy's promise and this promise comes to bring second thoughts for him. It was a heartfelt and enjoyable movie about family, keeping promises/commitments, dealing with bullies and family dynamics. Beau, Lloyd and Dorothy Bridges, and Beau's son, Jason are very convincing as family and friends who love and respect each other. Jeff Bridges plays a neighbor who helps the boy to earn money with washing his truck. The three actors who play the sons conveyed true brotherly love and support, which is nice to see in movies. I really enjoyed it and wish it was on every Thanksgiving. We need more good family movies like this.

Where'd this film go?

[sgiusaaz · 9/10 · 27 July 2006]

My children and I loved this film. It dealt with promises, responsibility, sibling conflict, generational differences and yet it all made sense.I first saw it on something like "Hallmark Hall of Fame". It was a surprise to see Bill Calvert playing a role. I met him a few years earlier in South Pasadena, he was an aspiring script writer, all of 16 or so, living with his mom and brother. When it repeated, I taped it. My 2 children were rooting for the goose, supportive of the boy, and fearful of the promised dinner that the goose was bound for. The flexibility of compassion and common sense prevails. P.S. My ex-wife burned the tape as she believed that the swimming scenes of the boys was inappropriate for a 'family' audience. Looked OK to me and my kids. Go figure. I really wish it would be re-released. We all need a break from the mindless chatter of today's 'civilization'.

Thanksgiving film with lots of great family-oriented themes.

[wallcind · 10/10 · 22 November 2007]

I taped this movie when it was first on and, as a teacher, have shown it to my sixth graders every year. They all LOVE it even in this day of sex, violence, and graphic action. The movie is heart-warming and filled with lots of wonderful family-oriented themes, love from the heart being the over-riding one. It's sad that today's film-makers can't produce family-oriented movies without trash. This film is a great example of family values, self-responsibility, and living an honest lifestyle of hard work and respect for self and others. Today's youth needs more movies like this! This one needs to be released on DVD now!

great family movie

[diphil · 10/10 · 1 August 2006]

I am a teacher and I used to show this to my fifth graders each year on the day before Thanksgiving. In this day and age of jaded and streetwise young people it was so refreshing to watch their interest and caring rise to the surface as they viewed the movie. Unfortunately, I loaned it to someone and it disappeared. I cannot find where I can buy a copy. I have been looking for years. If you know of a way I would very much appreciate the information.

I loved this movie because of the messages it gives and the opportunities for discussion and writing activities which always followed the viewing.

I really miss not having this movie to show my students.

I am so proud...

[aubrey-h-tuning · 6 December 2004]

I am the proud daughter of Craig Holyoak, whom you will see was one of the writers for this film. I was eight when this film was written, and I had actually seen it a couple times before my dad's name was pointed out in the credits. I couldn't believe it. I loved it before, but I fell more in love with it when I knew my dad could take credit for such a great story. He is not one to boast or comment about his accomplishments (which is so well deserved), so I love to do that for him. He is such a talented artist and a wonderful father. I hope others enjoyed this movie as much as I did growing up!!!! Why isn't this played on Thanksgiving day anymore? I would love to see it played more often, such a great storyline..

• A proud daughter

Great Holiday Classic

[rebelbmf · 10/10 · 18 November 2020]

Please bring this treasure back to us, at least on Disney Plus.

Thanksgiving Promise is one of the BEST FAMILY MOVIES!!!

[princesslocust · 10/10 · 22 November 2005]

The Thanksgiving Promise was a heartwarming movie. I especially liked the interaction between the family members, friends & neighbors. I also thoroughly enjoyed the morals, commitment & dedication it provided. A person's word is so important to their character & nowadays many people don't have the honor that goes with one's word. I don't understand why this movie isn't played EVERY year before or during the Thanksgiving holiday. I would love to be able to share this movie with grandchildren. It would surely be a movie that would make great memories for parents, grandparents & children to watch together. I wish I knew where to buy a tape or CD of this movie. I haven't seen one anywhere. I hope others have the opportunity to see this fantastic movie sometime in the near future. I know I'll be watching it again if it ever comes on TV. Thank you.