Love Child Poster

Love Child 1982

★ 5.26 votes96 min📅 1982-10-15

"At 19 they took away her freedom. At 20 they tried to take her baby."

Larry Peerce's gripping drama *Love Child (1982)* plunges viewers into the harrowing true story of Terry Jean Moore, a young woman whose life unravels after a petty robbery lands her in prison at just 19.

Director: Larry Peerce

Cast

Amy Madigan
Amy Madigan
Terry Jean Moore
Beau Bridges
Beau Bridges
Jack Hansen
Mackenzie Phillips
Mackenzie Phillips
J.J.
Albert Salmi
Albert Salmi
Capt. Ellis
Joanna Merlin
Joanna Merlin
Mrs. Sturgis
Margaret Whitton
Margaret Whitton
Jacki Steinberg
Lewis Smith
Lewis Smith
Jesse Chaney
Dennis Lipscomb
Dennis Lipscomb
Arthur Brady
Anna Maria Horsford
Anna Maria Horsford
Mara
Michael Shane
Judge Hare

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *Love Child* (1982) about?

*Love Child* (1982) follows Terry Jean Moore, a young woman imprisoned for a minor crime, whose life takes a dramatic turn when she becomes pregnant by a prison guard. Determined to keep her baby, Terry battles against the system in a fight that tests her resilience and humanity.

Who directed *Love Child*?

Larry Peerce directed *Love Child* (1982), bringing a raw, emotional depth to this true-to-life drama.

Who stars in *Love Child*?

The film stars Amy Madigan as Terry Jean Moore, alongside Beau Bridges, Mackenzie Phillips, Albert Salmi, and Joanna Merlin in key roles.

Is *Love Child* (1982) worth watching?

While not widely known, *Love Child* (1982) is a compelling drama rooted in real events, offering emotional depth and strong performances from its cast. Fans of 1980s character-driven stories will find it a rewarding watch, especially those interested in tales of resilience and injustice.

How long is *Love Child*?

*Love Child* (1982) has a runtime of 96 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About Love Child (1982) — A True Story of Injustice and Maternal Love

Larry Peerce's gripping drama *Love Child (1982)* plunges viewers into the harrowing true story of Terry Jean Moore, a young woman whose life unravels after a petty robbery lands her in prison at just 19. Sentenced to seven years for a seemingly minor crime, Terry faces another battle when she becomes pregnant by a prison guard, setting the stage for a gut-wrenching fight to keep her baby against the rigid constraints of the penal system. This emotionally charged narrative explores themes of injustice, resilience, and the fight for maternal rights, all wrapped in the stark realism of its era. With a tone that balances raw intensity and heartfelt drama, *Love Child* is a film that lingers long after the credits roll, challenging audiences to reflect on the human cost of institutional power.

Amy Madigan delivers a powerhouse performance as Terry, supported by Beau Bridges and Mackenzie Phillips, whose portrayals add depth to this gripping tale of survival. Released in 1982, this understated yet powerful drama remains a poignant commentary on the intersection of crime, punishment, and motherhood, offering a story that's as compelling as it is thought-provoking.