If Tomorrow Comes (film)
If Tomorrow Comes is a 1986 American two-part television miniseries based on the 1985 novel of the same name by Sidney Sheldon. It stars Madolyn Smith as Tracy Whitney, a woman who is framed by the Mafia and unjustly incarcerated.
Plot Summary:
The miniseries follows Tracy Whitney, an intelligent and beautiful woman planning to marry into a wealthy and prominent New Orleans family. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she is betrayed and framed by a Mafia boss seeking revenge against her fiancé's family. Unjustly convicted and sentenced to prison, Tracy experiences the harsh realities of incarceration and plots her revenge against those who wronged her. Upon her release, she uses her intelligence and cunning to become a master thief, traveling the world and pulling off elaborate heists. Along the way, she encounters Jeff Stevens (played by Tom Berenger), a charismatic con artist who becomes both her rival and her love interest. The series chronicles Tracy's adventures as she navigates the treacherous world of crime, seeking justice and carving out her own path to success.
Cast:
- Madolyn Smith as Tracy Whitney
- Tom Berenger as Jeff Stevens
- David Keith as Daniel Cooper
- Liam Neeson as Inspector Andre Trignant
- Jack Weston as Uncle Willie
- Susan Tyrrell as Dolores Miller
- Richard Kiley as Judge Lawrence
Production:
The miniseries was directed by Jerry London and aired on CBS in two parts. It was a popular television event, capitalizing on the success of Sheldon's novel and featuring a glamorous and fast-paced storyline.
Reception:
If Tomorrow Comes received mixed reviews. Some critics praised the miniseries for its entertainment value and the performances of the lead actors, particularly Madolyn Smith. Others criticized it for its melodramatic plot and deviations from the source material. Despite mixed critical reception, the miniseries was a ratings success.
Differences from the Novel:
While the miniseries follows the basic plot of Sidney Sheldon's novel, there are several significant differences. Certain characters are omitted or combined, and some plot points are altered or condensed to fit the television format. The overall tone of the miniseries is also often perceived as lighter and more action-oriented than the novel.
Legacy:
If Tomorrow Comes remains a popular adaptation of Sidney Sheldon's work. It showcases the author's signature themes of revenge, justice, and the resilience of women facing adversity. The miniseries has been released on DVD and continues to be viewed by audiences interested in crime dramas and adaptations of popular novels.