Shattered Dreams (1990 film)
| Industry | Entertainment |
|---|---|
| Products | Film distribution, home media |
| Website | www |
Shattered Dreams is a 1990 American television drama directed by Robert Iscove, adapted from Charlotte Fedders' 1987 memoir Shattered Dreams: The Story of Charlotte Fedders. Featuring performances by Lindsay Wagner and Michael Nouri, the film debuted on CBS on May 13, 1990.
Plot
Charlotte O'Donnell and John Fedders first cross paths at Catholic University, where Charlotte pursues nursing studies while John attends law school. They marry and relocate to New York City in 1968; John secures a position at a leading Wall Street law firm, and Charlotte works as a nurse. Their relationship deteriorates as John becomes abusive. After an incident that results in Charlotte’s eardrum being ruptured, she seeks a divorce but agrees to reconcile upon discovering she is pregnant.
By 1973, the family has settled in Washington, D.C. with two sons. Charlotte has left her nursing career to become a homemaker. Despite this, John's controlling and violent conduct persists. A priest counsels Charlotte to maintain her marital vows and pursue spiritual support.
In 1978, with four sons, John's abuse intensifies. Following an episode witnessed by their children, Charlotte tries to leave but returns after John offers an apology.
By 1983, the couple has five sons and John holds the position of Director of Enforcement at the SEC. Charlotte begins attending therapy alone, where she learns about battered woman syndrome. After John threatens their eldest son, she expels him from their home.
Charlotte retains legal counsel and initiates divorce proceedings. In court, John alleges that Charlotte welcomed the abuse; his attorney requests time for reconciliation, but Charlotte declines. The judge allows a 60-day reconciliation period, which Charlotte refuses.
Following media attention, John resigns from his SEC role. A court-mandated meeting results in John pressuring Charlotte for reconciliation; she rejects him and finalizes the divorce. Afterwards, Charlotte dedicates herself to assisting other victims of domestic violence.
Cast
- Lindsay Wagner as Charlotte Fedders
- Michael Nouri as John Fedders
- Georgann Johnson as Helen O'Donnell
- James Karen as Charles O'Donnell
- Stan Ivar as Bryan Renehan
- Jay R. Ferguson as Luke Fedders (teenager)
Release
The film was broadcast on CBS on May 13, 1990.
Reception
Richard F. Shepard of The New York Times commended the production for its "thoughtfully crafted script" and "powerful yet measured emotional delivery," describing it as a compelling and authentic portrayal of spousal abuse.
David Hiltbrand from People awarded the movie a "B" grade, emphasizing Wagner's compelling performance alongside Nouri’s intense depiction that enhances the film’s dramatic effect.
Home media
On December 16, 2003, Lionsgate released the film on DVD.