Act of Love (1980 film)

Act of Love is a 1980 American made-for-television drama film directed by Jud Taylor and starring Ron Howard, Robert Foxworth, and Tuesday Weld. The film is based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Paige Mitchell, which details the true story of Michael Satriano, a young man who assisted his terminally ill mother in committing suicide.

The film portrays the events leading up to the assisted suicide, the moral and legal complexities surrounding the act, and the subsequent trial of Michael. It explores themes of euthanasia, family dynamics, personal responsibility, and the right to die. The narrative focuses on Michael's internal struggles, the impact on his family and community, and the legal ramifications of his actions. The film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising the performances of the lead actors and the sensitive handling of a difficult subject, while others criticized the film's perceived bias and simplified portrayal of complex ethical issues. It generated considerable discussion and debate upon its release regarding the moral and legal aspects of assisted suicide.