
A Last Cry for Help 1979
In *A Last Cry for Help (1979)*, director Hal Sitowitz crafts a poignant drama that peels back the polished facade of suburban life to reveal the hidden struggles of a teenager drowning in unspoken pain.
Director: Hal Sitowitz
Cast









Frequently Asked Questions
What is *A Last Cry for Help (1979)* about?
The film follows Sharon, a bright 17-year-old whose outward success masks deep emotional pain at home. As her parents dismiss her unhappiness, she spirals into despair, culminating in a suicide attempt that forces her family to finally see her struggle. It's a raw portrayal of parental pressure and teenage mental health.
Who directed *A Last Cry for Help*?
Hal Sitowitz directed this gripping drama, known for his work in television movies that tackle complex family dynamics.
Who stars in *A Last Cry for Help*?
The film features Linda Purl as Sharon, Shirley Jones as her mother, Tony Lo Bianco as her father, and Tony Lo Bianco alongside Murray Hamilton in pivotal roles.
Is *A Last Cry for Help (1979)* worth watching?
While *A Last Cry for Help* isn't rated on IMDb, its themes of family pressure and adolescent mental health remain strikingly relevant. The strong performances and Sitowitz's direction make it a compelling watch for fans of dramatic, character-driven stories.
How long is *A Last Cry for Help*?
The runtime for *A Last Cry for Help* is 98 minutes.
About A Last Cry for Help (1979) — A Teen's Silent Struggle in a 1970s Family Drama
In *A Last Cry for Help (1979)*, director Hal Sitowitz crafts a poignant drama that peels back the polished facade of suburban life to reveal the hidden struggles of a teenager drowning in unspoken pain. The film follows Sharon, a seemingly happy 17-year-old with academic success and a bright future, whose inner turmoil is dismissed as trivial by her own mother. Trapped between suffocating parental expectations and the crushing weight of isolation, her emotional descent culminates in a desperate act that forces her family to confront her silent suffering. With a tone that balances raw honesty and lingering tension, Sitowitz explores themes of family dysfunction, mental health stigma, and the fragile nature of identity in adolescence.
Starring Linda Purl as Sharon, Shirley Jones as her conflicted mother, and Tony Lo Bianco as her father, the film delivers powerful performances that anchor its emotionally charged narrative. Set against the backdrop of 1970s domestic life, *A Last Cry for Help (1979)* stands as a timeless and sobering reminder of the quiet battles fought behind closed doors.