Watch Journey of the Heart

Journey of the Heart is a touching 1997 film that tells the story of a mother's love and her journey to help her troubled son. Directed by Karen Arthur and written by Susanna Styron, the movie stars Cybill Shepherd, Stephen Lang, and Blake Heron in the lead roles. The film opens with the introduction of Janice Johnston (Cybill Shepherd), a successful working mom, who shares an affectionate bond with her troubled son, Tyler (Blake Heron). Tyler is a teenager who has been struggling with drug addiction and a history of delinquency. Despite her busy work schedule, Janice's top priority is to help Tyler get back on track and leave his past behind.

Janice soon learns that Tyler has been caught selling drugs and must face legal consequences for his actions. Failing to provide Tyler with the structured environment he needs, Janice makes a difficult decision to send Tyler to a wilderness program for troubled teens. In this program, the teenagers are forced to confront their personal demons and overcome their addiction using an unconventional approach.

At the wilderness program, Tyler meets Jack (Stephen Lang), a tough and demanding program leader. Jack sees potential in Tyler, but also sees his rebellious streak and troubled past that is holding him back. Jack is determined to help Tyler face his demons, and the two forge a special bond. Together, they embark on a journey through the rugged wilderness, pushing each other to their limits and discovering their true selves.

As Janice tries to move on with her life, she finds herself recoiling in guilt for sending her son away. She too must confront her inner demons and come to terms with her own past. Janice discovers that her journey to healing Tyler, might be the only way to heal herself.

Journey of the Heart is a powerful film that offers an insightful look into the struggles that parents face when raising a child with addiction issues. The film portrays the anguish and heartache that parents go through when dealing with their child's addiction. It is also a story about hope and redemption, which resonates throughout the film.

The performances in the movie are exceptional. Cybill Shepherd delivers an outstanding performance as Janice, conveying a wide range of emotions, from vulnerability to strength, as she struggles to save her son. Blake Heron, in his debut role as Tyler, delivers an affecting and nuanced performance, capturing the complexity of his character's struggles.

Stephen Lang playing Jack is a standout. He brings a real depth to the film, portraying the character with grit and determination, while also showing his compassionate side. His character's relationship with Tyler is central to the movie, and the chemistry between the two actors is palpable. Their journey through the wilderness together, overcoming obstacles and bonding, is the highlight of the movie.

The film's themes are accentuated by the gorgeous cinematography, which captures the stunning beauty of the Pacific Northwest wilderness. The cinematographer, Michael Mayers, captures the grandeur of the landscape, conveying the impression of the vastness of nature and its ability to heal.

Overall, Journey of the Heart is an emotionally moving film that highlights the importance of parental support and the resilience of the human spirit. It is a film that will inspire and motivate viewers not to give up hope, even in the darkest of times. The film's portrayal of addiction, wilderness therapy, and redemption will touch audiences, leaving them with a sense of hope and understanding.

Journey of the Heart is a 1997 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.