This fact-based TV movie takes place in Richmond, Virginia, the home
of single mother Jody Shaffell (Valerie Bertinelli). Appalled by the
fact that Jody has come out of the closet and is living in an openly
gay relationship with her female lover, Jody's mother Nancy (Vanessa
Redgrave) sues to gain custody of her grandson Zachary (Adam Rehman).
A homophobic judge arranges for Zachary to be taken out of Jody's
home, whereupon Nancy sets about to thoroughly wipe her grandson's
memory clean of his previous "immoral" lifestyle--even unto
demanding that the boy refer to her as Momma. The film's script is
careful to weigh both sides of the argument equally, demonstrating
that for most of her life, Jody was hardly a paragon of responsible
motherhood, having supped full of booze and promiscuity before realizing
she was gay and promptly cleaning herself up; nor is Nancy depicted
as a cold-hearted villain, merely a concerned grandmother who wants
what she thinks is best for Zachary. Indeed, if there are truly any
"heavies" in the piece, they are the best friend and brother
of the beleagured Jody, who callously testify against her in court.
Originally seen over the ABC network, Two Mothers for Zachary debuted
September 22, 1996. (Sypnosis from Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide) |