Sooner or Later (1979)

Sooner or Later Poster

Thirteen-year-old Jessie is in love with Michael, a 17-year-old guitar instructor and aspiring musician. When she finally captures his interest, she lies and tells him she's 16. But what will Michael do when he discovers the truth?

Film Overview
"Sooner or Later" is a 1979 American made-for-television romantic drama film directed by Bruce Hart and produced by Robert Greenwald. The screenplay was written by Bruce Hart and Carole Hart, which primarily concentrates on the teenage romance and the complexities of young romance.

Plot and Characters
The film follows the romantic relationship in between a thirteen-year-old lady, Jessie Walters, played by Denise Miller, and a twenty-six-year-old guitar player, Michael Skye, played by Rex Smith. The story starts when Jessie establishes an interest in playing the guitar and begins taking lessons from Michael. She lies about her age, declaring to be sixteen, leading Michael to develop feelings for her.

Jessie's sensations for Michael grow too. Regardless of her consistent struggles with teen problematics, she tries to cross the boundary into their adult years. Her mom Sarah, a divorcee, and her friend Nina Bates, remain in a continuous fret about Jessie's teen predicaments. Whatever grows by leaps and bounds when Jessie and Michael share an intimate kiss during a rainstorm.

Identity Conflicts
The motion picture advances with the truth exposing itself as Jessie's school good friend acknowledges Michael at a music shop, revealing Jessie's genuine age. Michael feels deceived and the romantic relationship takes a hit when he rebuffs Jessie. The young girl, crushed by rejection, admits the fact to her mother who recommends her to make things right by asking forgiveness to Michael.

Resolution
Towards the end of the film, Jessie goes to Michael's music concert and apologizes in a really public and brave manner by screaming out an apology during his stage performance. Touched by her genuineness, Michael accepts her apology, which ends the film on a confident note with a possibility of them keeping a platonic relationship in the future until Jessie becomes of legal age.

The movie's soundtrack consists of the hit tune "You Take My Breath Away", performed by Rex Smith in the function of Michael, which ended up being a top-10 hit in the U.S. following the movie's best.

Vital Reception
"Sooner or Later" achieved business and vital success upon its release. The motion picture was praised for its delicate treatment of the subject, and the performances of Rex Smith and Denise Miller garnered positive evaluations. The movie was particularly commended for its sincere portrayal of adolescence and got a number of awards, consisting of a Primetime Emmy election for exceptional drama unique.

In summary, "Sooner or Later" tackles the style of teenager infatuation and age-gap relationships with care and respect. It provides viewers a wonderfully nuanced look at growing pains, expedition, and innocence, making it a timeless must-see maturing film.

Top Cast