On the evening of January 9, 1984, ABC-TV shook viewers up, with its ground breaking drama about childhood sexual abuse, "Something About Amelia." It was a career changer for Ted Danson, and even for Glenn Close, who, would have her career irrevocably altered several years later, by a little something called "Fatal Attraction."
The good news is nothing is shown. I mean, this was TV, so thank God. But Danson's performance, particularly his facial expressions, convey the simultaneous lust, guilt and torment he must feel in this most horrid of situations. Glenn Close, in several scenes, gets to unleash some energy constructively, that she would show, years later, in destructive form, as Alex Forrest.
Roxana Zal, as the title character is heartbreaking, and it must have taken courage for she to do such a role. Her fear, self-loathing and blame are palpably visible in every look seen, or every word spoken. I truly felt for her, but I felt even more for her younger sister Beth, superbly played by Missy Francis. Once the family is torn apart, and Beth starts by blaming Amelia, it is painful to watch, because Amelia and the viewer can see what Beth cannot--that, with Amelia aging out, she would be next in line for her father's abuse. If this story had been carried to a point where Amelia had kept quiet, I can almost guarantee poor Beth would be next.
Both girls are remarkable in their understanding of these very difficult roles. Danson's character is aptly creepy, and while he seems to come around, I would not trust him for a second. The film ends as though the family fabric is going to be mended, but I can tell you it would not last.
And Glenn Close is the reason why. Her character, Gail Bennett, has the largest arc, going from completely unaware (which I believe she was, as opposed to mothers who know what is going on, but just look the other way) to denial, to acceptance, and wanting to do anything to protect her daughters. I don't care how the ending looks, the woman will eventually file for divorce. Leopards don't change their spots quickly.
In ensuing years, child abuse has been depicted even more disturbingly; consider the father, played by Dylan Baker in the film "Happiness." But "Something About Amelia" was a ground breaker, and despite thirty plus years passing, still tells its story well.
I suggest parents watch it with their children, once they reach about Amelia's age.
Because, understand one thing--this is NOT "Amelia Bedelia," darlings!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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