A Saintly Switch (1999)

A Saintly Switch Poster

The story is about a married couplewith children on the verge of divorce. Their imminent divorce, like many, is due to their mutual lack of respect and compassion for each other and the effect it has on their children. When the family makes a traumatic move to New Orleans they move into an old, Victorian home. There, in the attic, the children think they have found the "magic" to solve their parent's problems. The children accidentally manage to switch the souls of their parents. Now the wife must face the perils of the lockeroom and pressures as family breadwinner and the husband must face pregnancy and bond with his children. Newfound respect and appreciation is gained as the couple finally find out what it's like to walk in the other person's shoes.

Film Overview
"A Saintly Switch" is a household comedy television film that was aired by ABC in 1999 as part of the network's "Wonderful World of Disney" series. Directed by Peter Bogdanovich and written by Sally Nemeth and Roger Schulman, the movie is an entertaining and humorous take on the idea of body switching. It stars Vivica A. Fox, David Alan Grier, Rue McClanahan, and Ortis and Katlynn Wallace.

Plot and Characters
The story focuses around the Anderson family, particularly Dan (David Alan Grier), his other half, Sara (Vivica A. Fox), and their children, Anastasia (Katlynn Wallace) and Clark (Ortis Wallace). The Andersons are on the verge of a divorce due to continuous bickering and infidelity from Paul. But their children are determined to keep them together. They discover an old chest in the attic that contains a set of old candle lights, which according to a next-door neighbor, Fanny Moye (Rue McClanahan), have magical powers. In an attempt to stop their parents' upcoming separation, the children unconsciously switch their moms and dads' bodies using a spell from a book discovered along with the candle lights.

Body Swap and Realizations
The body swap in between Sara and Dan causes a series of comical and challenging situations as they browse their lives, expert obligations, and household dynamics in bodies that are not their own. The switch ends up being an experience of self-discovery and compassion for both Sara and Dan. They discover the challenges, pressures, and happiness their partner deals with and starts to understand and value each other in ways they had not in the past. The magic switch forces them to walk in each other's shoes, helping them reconnect and realize the worth of their relationship.

Resolution of Conflict
They struggle to handle the responsibilities of each other's functions and miscommunicate, causing additional mayhem and hilarity. However, they ultimately start complying to preserve the form of normalcy. Slowly, their antipathy fades away, and mutual understanding develops as they recognize their love for each other. They repair their damaged relationship and choose not to divorce, much to their children's pleasure. Eventually, the spell is broken, and they go back to their original bodies, but with a much deeper understanding and appreciation of each other.

Styles and Reception
"A Saintly Switch" is a heartfelt movie that explores styles such as household unity, marital understanding, gender functions, and the power of love and understanding. It combines comedy with life lessons, making it a family-friendly film. It got normally positive feedback for the efficiencies of the main stars, especially the chemistry between Fox and Grier, along with for its humor and endearing story. It also resonated well with numerous viewers for its relevant themes and was praised for its amusing and understanding portrayal of family relationships. Although it might not be a mainstream classic, "A Saintly Switch" is undoubtedly an enjoyable family movie that offers a distinct amusing twist to the typical nostalgic household drama.

Top Cast

  • Vivica A. Fox (small)
    Vivica A. Fox
    Sara Anderson
  • David Alan Grier (small)
    David Alan Grier
    Dan Anderson
  • Al Waxman (small)
    Al Waxman
    Coach Beasily
  • Scott Cumberbatch (small)
    Scott Cumberbatch
    Clarke
  • Shadia Simmons
    Annette Anderson
  • David Keeley (small)
    David Keeley
    Otis