It is a very clear memory to me seeing this special with my one parent back when it aired. Having both been in the house with an emotionally abusive person, it really struck a chord with us as we were consistently nodding our heads in agreement with the presentation of Beth Howland's character.
That said, it has been 22 years since i have seen this and I would wager that the writing is probably cliché and some of the acting weak. However, it really rang true at the time and that is thanks to Beth Howland and the writers. Whatever they might have gotten wrong in this, they hit the nail on the head when it comes to the mother's emotional manipulation.
*Spoiler* The only gripe I remember having at the time was the quick wrap-up happy ending. In that kind of domestic situation, the perpetrator does not suddenly see the error of their ways, repent and then all is well. They are invested in their self-delusion and the need to always be right. They must never admit they could be wrong or the entire facade breaks down. However, this is how it is resolved in this special and everyone is okay now that mommy said she was sorry. The girl seems to have no emotional scars after years of torment and belittling - a ridiculous resolution considering the accuracy of the circumstance.
Anyway, that gripe aside, it is the most accurate portrayal of that kind of abusive parent I have seen. And as over-the-top as Beth Howland's character might seem (i.e. "no one would behave in that way"), it is no exaggeration that that is how it can be. Trust me on this one.
That said, it has been 22 years since i have seen this and I would wager that the writing is probably cliché and some of the acting weak. However, it really rang true at the time and that is thanks to Beth Howland and the writers. Whatever they might have gotten wrong in this, they hit the nail on the head when it comes to the mother's emotional manipulation.
*Spoiler* The only gripe I remember having at the time was the quick wrap-up happy ending. In that kind of domestic situation, the perpetrator does not suddenly see the error of their ways, repent and then all is well. They are invested in their self-delusion and the need to always be right. They must never admit they could be wrong or the entire facade breaks down. However, this is how it is resolved in this special and everyone is okay now that mommy said she was sorry. The girl seems to have no emotional scars after years of torment and belittling - a ridiculous resolution considering the accuracy of the circumstance.
Anyway, that gripe aside, it is the most accurate portrayal of that kind of abusive parent I have seen. And as over-the-top as Beth Howland's character might seem (i.e. "no one would behave in that way"), it is no exaggeration that that is how it can be. Trust me on this one.