The Greatest Thing That Almost Happened

About This Movie

The Greatest Thing That Almost Happened dives into a heavy narrative with a somber yet gripping tone. The film explores themes of youth, ambition, and the harsh realities that come crashing down when the protagonist, a promising basketball player, discovers he has leukemia just before a major tournament. It handles emotional weight with a delicate touch, balancing moments of hope and despair. The pacing might feel uneven at times, but it adds to the authenticity of the teenage experience. Performances are sincere, particularly in their portrayals of friendship and vulnerability. There's something raw about how it captures the intensity of adolescence facing mortality, which gives it a distinct flavor in the TV movie landscape of the time.

This film has had a rather limited release over the years, making original prints a bit hard to come by. VHS copies are more common, but they don’t do justice to its emotional depth. As a TV movie from the late 70s, it hasn't received much attention in the collector community, yet there's a certain interest in its unique take on youth and illness. Those who appreciate lost gems from television history may find it a curious piece worth seeking.