Tuesdays With Morrie [VHS]
This warmhearted TV offering based on Mitch Albom'snonfiction  bestsellerof the same name dives right into the action, with Morrie (Jack  Lemmon) collapsing within the first three minutes. Then it's cut to Mitch's hectic life as a sports columnist cum television host and long-term, often  long-distance boyfriend. But this Mick Jackson-directed film slows  considerably after the introductions as former student Mitch (Hank Azaria)  learns his beloved professor is dying of ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). He  reconnects with his mentor and begins learning from him all over again, this  time about life. Oprah Winfrey produced this 88-minute film, and her renowned  touchy-feely quality is prominent as Mitch learns to love both Morrie and his  own girlfriend. Azaria, better known for somewhat goofy roles (The  Birdcage, the dogwalker on TV'sMad About You)  conveys an intelligent, if edgy dignity, and double Oscar winner Lemmon turns  in his usual exquisite performance, giving even the most obvious moments  touches of subtlety.--Kimberly Heinrichs