Christmas Lilies of the Field (1979)

Introduction
"Christmas Lilies of the Field" is a 1979 American made-for-television drama film directed by Ralph Nelson. The movie is a sequel to Nelson's 1963 movie, "Lilies of the Field", based upon characters from William Edmund Barrett's novels. Billy Dee Williams replaces Sidney Poitier from the original movie, reprising the function of Homer Smith.

The Storyline
The holiday-themed movie go back to the story of Homer Smith, a drifter and ex-GI, and his relationship with a group of German-speaking Nuns in the Arizona desert. It is set several years after the events in "Lilies of the Field". Homer Smith suddenly revisits the chapel he helped build for the 5 immigrant nuns whom he had befriended. Smith discovers that the nuns have actually taken in a number of homeless orphans and are having a hard time to care for them with their minimal resources. Seeing the nuns' financial struggles, Homer accepts remain and help them, when again.

Main Characters & Performances
Billy Dee Williams stars as Homer Smith. Williams' representation of Smith is enthusiastic and emotional, showing his deep connection to the nuns and the kids they have taken in. The five nuns, Mother Maria, Sister Gertrude, Sister Albertine, Sister Elizabeth, and Sister Agnes, are all repeated from the initial movie. The bond in between the nuns and Smith is wholehearted and provides the psychological core of the movie.

Plot Development
As Christmas nears, Homer handles the job of developing a much-needed school for the growing number of orphaned kids. The ever-growing financial stress threatens to halt the project and dims the Christmas spirit within the home. Yet, Smith and the nuns continue to keep faith, despite their scenarios. Aspects of the plot revolve around Smith's determined mission to discover the necessary funds to finish the school and to provide the children a remarkable Christmas.

Setting and Themes
Set versus the backdrop of the stark Arizona desert, the unforgiving environment plays a substantial function in dramatizing their battles. The desolate yet lovely landscape underscores the persistent theme of discovering hope and delight in the most tough of scenarios. The movie's styles focus on faith, hope, love, friendship, sacrifice, and Christmas wonders.

Conclusion
In a conflict of despair and hope, compassion and community, the movie culminates in a heartfelt conclusion when a wonder conserves the day, allowing them to complete the school structure and commemorate a happy Christmas. "Christmas Lilies of the Field" is both a heartwarming holiday movie and a poignant exploration of the power of faith, neighborhood, and determination. Although loaded with religious overtones, the motion picture's central message is universally appealing: the miraculous power of love and friendship to change lives, specifically during the Christmas season.

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