Claire Forlani and Oliver Hudson in "Nora Roberts' Carolina Moon"
courtesy of Lifetime
"Nora Roberts' Carolina Moon" (Lifetime)

For the past three weeks Lifetime has been presenting a series of original movies based on the novels of Nora Roberts. Now it is time for the last in the series "Carolina Moon." This movie sends the series out with a bang. Claire Forlani, Oliver Hudson and Jacqueline Bisset make up a strong cast for this gripping story of an unsolved murder in the South.

Tory Bodeen (Forlani) and Hope Lavelle were best friends as children. One night they arranged to meet in the woods and exchange secrets. Tory didn't get to go as her abusive father (Shaun Johnston) beat her for some minor infraction of his rules. Hope went into the woods by herself and was later found raped and murdered.

After this happened Tory and her family moved away. Now eighteen years later she has returned. She is welcomed back by Hope's brother Cade (Hudson) who has always loved Tory. His mother, Margaret (Bisset), is not happy to see her return. She holds Tory responsible for her daughter's death.

As the anniversary of Hope's death approaches it seems the killer will strike again. Rather than run from her fears Tory decides to take a stand and face whatever danger lies ahead. Cade and his sister Faith (Josie Davis) stand with her.

Forlani first attracted major attention as Brad Pitt's love interest in the film "Meet Joe Black." She is an unusual looking woman but one who attracts your attention. Opposite her Hudson is an All-American looking leading man. The two actors have good chemistry together and make their love come alive for the viewing audience.

A big surprise in the movie is Josie Davis. She gives a sparkle to her portrayal of Faith. This character starts out being rather shallow but she grows to be a source of strength for Tory. Davis makes her the most energetic member of the story and one who grabs the attention of the audience whenever she appears in a scene.

Bisset is also stunning in her role of Margaret. She is so attractive and so appealing in the role that you wish she had had more screen time. She introduces you to Margaret's complexities but never has the chance to resolve them.

Of the four adaptations from Roberts' novels, this is the most enjoyable of the series. Forlani and company bring this story to life and make it a truly enjoyable two hours of television entertainment.

"Nora Roberts Carolina Moon" premieres February 19 at 9PM on Lifetime.
 

 

 

 

 

©2007 Jackie K. Cooper

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