Watch Tuesdays with Morrie

"Tuesdays with Morrie" is a touching and thought-provoking drama directed by Mick Jackson and based on the autobiographical book of the same name by Mitch Albom. The movie follows the story of a talented sports journalist, Mitch Albom (portrayed by Hank Azaria), who reconnects with his college mentor and former sociology professor, Morrie Schwartz (played by the late great Jack Lemmon), after 16 years of silence.

The story begins with a glimpse into Mitch's busy and hectic life as a successful journalist, husband, and father, who seems to have lost touch with his true self and the values he once held dear. After stumbling upon a "Nightline" interview with Morrie, in which he talks candidly about his terminal illness and the lessons he learned about life, love, and death, Mitch decides to visit his old professor and reconnect with him, hoping to learn from him one last time.

Thus begins the titular "Tuesdays with Morrie," a series of weekly meetings between Mitch and Morrie, during which they discuss a wide range of topics, from the nature of love and forgiveness, to the importance of family, community, and forgiveness. Through their conversations, we are drawn into a world of profound wisdom, insight, and humor, as Morrie faces the final chapter of his life with grace, dignity, and acceptance, and as Mitch learns to see his life and relationships in a new light.

Morrie becomes a mentor, guide, and friend to Mitch, sharing his life story, his regrets, and his insights with him, while helping him to find meaning and purpose in his own life. Their conversations are filmed in Morrie's cozy study, surrounded by books, photos, and memorabilia, and are interspersed with flashbacks to their college days, when Mitch was a young, ambitious student and Morrie was a passionate and inspiring teacher.

The movie deftly navigates the themes of mortality, aging, and spirituality, without becoming preachy or sentimental. It invites the viewers to reflect on their own lives, relationships, and values, and to ask themselves the same questions that Mitch asks himself. What is truly important in life? Do we live the life we want or the one others expect of us? What legacy do we want to leave behind?

The film's emotional punch largely comes from the performances of its two lead actors. Jack Lemmon delivers a standout performance as Morrie Schwartz, portraying him with a perfect balance of humor, vulnerability, and wisdom. His portrayal is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, as we see him slowly losing his physical abilities but never his spirit.

Hank Azaria also shines as Mitch Albom, transforming from a cynical and career-driven journalist to a more empathetic and passionate person, who learns to appreciate the simple things in life and open his heart to others. Wendy Moniz plays Janine, Mitch's wife, in a small but effective role, representing the challenges and tensions of a marriage between two busy professionals.

Overall, "Tuesdays with Morrie" is a deeply moving and thought-provoking movie that offers a rare glimpse into the intimate conversations between a dying man and his former student. It reminds us of the power of human connection, the importance of living authentically, and the inevitability of death. It is a movie that will leave you inspired, reflective, and maybe a little bit teary-eyed.