A Ring of Endless Light

A Ring of Endless Light is a Disney Channel Original Movie that was released on August 23, 2002. The film was based on the book of the same name written by Madeleine L'Engle.
== Plot ==
When 16-year-old Vicky Austin, her sister Suzy and little brother Rob visit their grandfather on Seven Bay Island, Vicky faces several unexpected challenges. Her beloved grandfather, the retired Reverend Eaton, seems to be seriously ill, but tries to pretend that nothing is wrong. Vicky met the rich but emotionally troubled Zachary Gray the previous summer, and he reappears to renew the acquaintance. Another boy, 17-year-old Adam Eddington, recruits Vicky to help him with a research project, working with a dolphin called Basil. Vicky discovers she can communicate telepathically with the dolphin and his mate – and possibly with Adam as well.
Vicky copes as best she can with the increasing stress placed on her by her grandfather's illness, especially once he admits to her that he is dying of leukaemia. In turn, Reverend Eaton tries to encourage Vicky with his gentle wisdom and appreciation of her talents, especially her writing, in marked contrast to her parents' long-distance expectations that she studies science.
A rivalry develops between Zach and Adam, which becomes an uneasy alliance as the three teenagers seek to expose the illegal use of drift nets, which trap and kill dolphins, by a ship owned by Zach's father. Eventually they succeed, saving their dolphin friend (and Adam himself) from the deadly net just as Vicky's grandfather arrives with the Coast Guard. The excitement is too much for Reverend Eaton, however, who dies soon afterward. He leaves behind a new blank book for Vicky in which to write her poetry. Vicky decides to follow her heart and her talents rather than her parents' plans for her.
== Cast and Characters ==
* Mischa Barton as Vicky Austin
* Ryan Merriman as Adam Eddington
* Jared Padalecki as Zachary Gray
* Scarlett Pomers as Suzy Austin
* Soren Fulton as Rob Austin
* James Whitmore as Grandfather
* Theresa Wong as Dr. Zand
* Penny Everingham as Cecily
== Reception ==
Laura Fries of Variety reviewed the film negatively, remarking "Writers Marita Giovanni and Bruce Graham take the poignant and thought-provoking notions of life and death found in the Madeline L’Engle teen novel and turn it into Gidget meets Flipper drivel..." Lynne Heffley of Los Angeles Times was more complimentary, lauding the performances, highlighting "...Mischa Barton's luminous presence as Vicky and the venerable James Whitmore as her tender and wise grandfather."
== Awards and Nominations ==
Year	Award 	Association 	Nominated 	Result
2002	Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Children's Programs	Directors Guild of America Awards	Greg Beeman	Nominated
Category:Disney Channel Original Movies
Category:Films
Category:2002 Films
Category:Live-Action Films
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