Hallmark Hall Of Fame Season 40 Episode 2 Sarah, Plain and Tall
- February 3, 1991
In Hallmark Hall of Fame season 40, episode 2, viewers are transported to the vast and windswept plains of Kansas in the late 19th century. Based on the beloved novel by Patricia MacLachlan, "Sarah, Plain and Tall" tells the story of Jacob Witting, a widowed farmer who lives with his two children, Anna and Caleb. The family has struggled to make ends meet since the death of Jacob's wife, and Anna longs for a mother to help take care of them.
Enter Sarah Wheaton, a spinster from Maine who has responded to Jacob's newspaper ad seeking a wife. Sarah is independent and adventurous, and the Witting children are both intrigued and unsure of her. But as Sarah proves herself to be a capable and loving presence in their lives, Jacob begins to fall in love with her. Sarah faces her own internal struggles as she grapples with the choice of leaving her old life behind to start anew on the prairie.
The episode explores themes of love, loss, and the power of family bonds. It depicts the challenges of adapting to a new way of life and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Beautifully filmed against a backdrop of sweeping grasslands and stunning sunsets, "Sarah, Plain and Tall" offers a poignant and heartwarming tale of hope and redemption.
The performances of the cast are exceptional, particularly Glenn Close as Sarah and Christopher Walken as Jacob. Close brings both strength and vulnerability to her character, portraying Sarah as a woman who is determined to find her place in the world but afraid to let go of the past. Walken imbues Jacob with a quiet dignity and a deep love for his children. The chemistry between Walken and Close is palpable, lending a sense of authenticity to their characters' burgeoning romance.
The supporting cast is equally strong, with Malgorzata Zajaczkowska as Anna and Christopher Bell as Caleb delivering standout performances as the Witting children. The chemistry between the siblings is believable and touching, and their growing attachment to Sarah provides a heartwarming subplot to the main story.
The production design and cinematography are also noteworthy, capturing the stark beauty of the Kansas landscape and creating an immersive sense of time and place. The costumes and set design evoke a sense of authenticity, transporting viewers back to a simpler time before the advent of modern conveniences.
Overall, "Sarah, Plain and Tall" is a moving and beautifully crafted adaptation of a beloved novel. Its themes of love, family, and the power of the human spirit to overcome challenges are as relevant today as they were when the novel was first published. Viewers will be touched by the story's gentle realism and poignant portrayal of the joys and sorrows of everyday life.