Watch The Children of Times Square

The Children of Times Square is a heart-breaking drama about a reporter who becomes embroiled in the plight of runaway and homeless children in New York City. The film, released in 1986, features an outstanding cast, including Howard E. Rollins Jr., Joanna Cassidy, and David Ackroyd, who deliver powerful performances that bring to life the harsh realities of life on the streets.

The plot follows Charles 'Chappy' Sinclair (Rollins), a journalist who is investigating the mysterious disappearance of children from the streets of Times Square. As Chappy delves deeper into his investigation, he finds himself drawn into the world of runaway and homeless children who live on the streets and become easy prey for the predators who lurk in the shadows.

Along the way, Chappy meets a group of streetwise kids who have formed a makeshift family to survive the harsh realities of life on the streets. Led by the charismatic Little Harry (Leon), the group includes Jenna (Melanie Gaffin), a teenage girl who has been forced to prostitute herself to survive, and Max (Peter Billingsley), a young boy who has been abandoned by his parents and left to fend for himself.

Despite the danger and despair that surrounds him, Chappy forms a bond with the kids and becomes determined to help them escape their desperate situation. With the help of Karen (Cassidy), a social worker who works tirelessly to help the children, Chappy sets out to expose the corruption and neglect that has allowed these children to fall through the cracks and into the hands of those who would exploit them.

Throughout the film, the audience is given a harrowing glimpse into the world of runaway and homeless children, a world that is cold, cruel, and unforgiving. The children face hunger and violence on a daily basis, and their vulnerability makes them easy targets for predators who prey on their innocence and desperation.

Despite its hard-hitting subject matter, The Children of Times Square is a film that is ultimately hopeful and uplifting. It shines a light on the resilience and courage of these children, who have been forced to grow up far too quickly and face challenges that no child should ever have to face. The film is a testament to the power of community and the human spirit, and it is a reminder that no matter how dire the situation may seem, there is always hope.

One of the strengths of the film is its outstanding cast, who bring depth and nuance to their roles. Rollins is superb as Chappy, a flawed but compassionate man who becomes emotionally invested in the lives of the children he encounters. Cassidy is equally impressive as Karen, a tireless advocate for the children who is equally committed to her own family. And Ackroyd delivers a nuanced performance as a police captain who must navigate the complex world of politics and corruption to do what is right.

Another highlight of the film is its stunning cinematography, which captures the gritty beauty of Times Square and its surrounding neighborhoods. The city becomes a character in its own right, a symbol of both hope and despair that serves as a backdrop to the film's powerful story.

Overall, The Children of Times Square is a thought-provoking and emotionally powerful film that tackles some of the most pressing social issues of our time. It is a film that deserves to be seen by anyone who cares about the welfare of children and the plight of the homeless.

The Children of Times Square is a 1986 tv movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.