About If These Walls Could Talk

"If These Walls Could Talk" is a 1996 made-for-television anthology drama film. The movie, directed by Cher and Nancy Savoca, depicts the complex topic of abortion by exploring three stories set in different decades - 1952, 1974, and 1996. Each story takes place in the same house, adopting the narrative technique of anthology storytelling.

Making / Production

The movie was produced by HBO and was originally released on October 13, 1996. Directors Cher and Nancy Savoca present a touching narrative into the highly sensitive subject of abortion. The film subtly handles the psychological, moral, and legal aspects of abortion through three women’s experiences. The purpose of the movie was not only to entertain but also to facilitate a discussion about this relevant issue.

Actors

• Demi Moore as Claire Donnelly - Moore's character goes through an unintended pregnancy shot in 1952. She portrayed the harsh reality of illegal abortions during that time.
• Sissy Spacek as Barbara Barrows - Playing a nurse who finds herself pregnant in 1974, Spacek personifies the fears and insecurities experienced by women.
• Cher as Dr. Beth Thompson - Cher gives a potent performance as a modern doctor performing abortions under the constant threat of violence.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This film marks Cher's directorial debut.
• "If These Walls Could Talk" garnered the highest ratings for an original movie on HBO that year.

Awards

The film received generally positive reviews and was nominated for several awards, including the Emmy for Outstanding Made for Television Movie.

Quotes

• "What I think and what I am going to are two different things, Tess." - Demi Moore as Claire Donnelly
• "There's never an easy way, is there?" - Sissy Spacek as Barbara Barrows
• "They can make it illegal, but they can't make it go away." - Cher as Dr. Beth Thompson

Music, Soundtrack

• "To A Child" by Laura Nyro
• "Real Girl" by Mya