Joey battled leukemia since the age of three, and was one of the first children to undergo chemotherapy for the disease. The story traces John through his years at Penn State seeking the Heisman Trophy, and Joey his preteens, as each brother inspires the other, and their family around them, to try harder in life.
John wins the Heisman during a downturn in Joey's illness. During his acceptance speech, John names Joey as his prime motivator, then gradually breaks down in tears, as he tells everyone he wants Joey to have his trophy, for inspiring him and for enduring so much difficulty with leukemia. The whole Cappelletti family is there, and Joey runs to John's side.
The film ends by revealing Joey succumbed to his leukemia and died with John by his side on April 8, 1976.
The film was adapted from a best-selling biography of the brothers, and was well presented and well received. It also appeared later on home video in 1995. It was the most-viewed prime-time television show of the week upon its first airing in April 1977.[1] The movie got 96% on Rotten Tomatoes.[2]
Home media
The film was released by MTM Home Video in 1995 on VHS.[3]
Nominations
The film was nominated for Outstanding Directing in a Special Program - Drama or Comedy and Outstanding Writing in a Special Program - Drama or Comedy - Original Teleplay at the Emmy Awards, as well as for the Golden Globe Best Motion Picture Made for TV in 1978.
