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» » Waisen ohne Hoffnung (1979)

Short summary

In 1854, there were living on the streets of New York City over 10,000 abandoned orphaned children. Out of this desperate situation was born the orphan Train. This is a fictionalized account, based on actual events.

This was initially envisioned as a theatrical film with then-real life couple Steve McQueen and Ali MacGraw in the leads. After the duo ended their relationship, it became a TV movie instead.

User reviews


  • comment
    • Author: Jozrone
    I haven't seen this movie in years, but I loved it when it back then. I'd like to see it on video or DVD. When I first saw it I didn't know at the time that these orphan trains were something that really happened. I would have to say this movie shows a sad time in American history, but also a good time for those kids lucky enough to find a better place to live.

    I've been reading up on this movie here online and I knew that Jill Eikenberry was in it and she gave a very good performance, in my opinion. I did not, however, until today realize that Glenn Close is also in this movie. I will have to watch it again if I can find it to see her.
  • comment
    • Author: Flamehammer
    This movie has been part of my library for many years, and I've watched it about 7 or 8 times. I never get tired of it. Matter of fact, I never view it without choking up.

    It is a beautiful story, beautifully told and, among other things it shows us there is a world full of s.o.b's as well as a world full of people with kind hearts.

    The acting is quite impressive, all the children perfect in their roles. Melissa Michealson was superb as well as the little girl who limped through her role.

    It is an outstanding piece of American history, a fictionalized account about orphans on New York City streets who are taken out west to bond with families. Try that plot today.

    Jill Eikenberry and Kevin Dobson were excellent in the leads. Both of them stayed busy for many years. The Michaelson girl later appeared in a movie about boxing. Can't recall the name. After that, don't know what happened.

    Like "The Sound of Music" it is a story of children handling adversity, but minus the music.

    For me, it is a must-see film as it should be for everyone. Give it just a few minutes and you will be hooked. And the ending, where we are told about what happened to the children when they grew up, is quite impressive.

    We're only allowed 10 stars so, on my own, I will another 10.
  • Cast overview, first billed only:
    Jill Eikenberry Jill Eikenberry - Emma
    Kevin Dobson Kevin Dobson - Carlin
    Linda Manz Linda Manz - Sarah
    Graham Fletcher-Cook Graham Fletcher-Cook - Liverpool
    Melissa Michaelsen Melissa Michaelsen - J.P.
    Charles Fields Charles Fields - Mouse (as Charlie Fields)
    Peter Neuman Peter Neuman - Ben
    John Femia John Femia - Tony
    Sara Inglis Sara Inglis - Annie (as Sarah Ingliss)
    Andreas Manske Andreas Manske - Dutch
    Glenn Close Glenn Close - Jessica
    Morgan Farley Morgan Farley - Mr. McGarrity
    Severn Darden Severn Darden - Barrington
    Scott Rogers Scott Rogers - Bruce
    Justine Johnston Justine Johnston - Mrs. Comstock
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