By Adrianna Zampieri
A made-for-television adaptation of Mitch Albom’s book, “The Five People You Meet In Heaven” is a heartwarming story that is sure to lift anyone – no matter their beliefs.
An elderly man working at the Ruby Pier, affectionately nicknamed “Eddie Maintenance,” dies trying to save a little girl’s life, and what follows is his journey through the five levels of heaven. With each level, he encounters someone who teaches him the meaning of his life and how he has impacted others with his words and actions.
The story does jump from one year to another with no regard for a realistic, chronological order, but it keeps the viewer on their toes; they won’t know what or who to expect next. Each lesson he learns along his journey is also a lesson that the audience can take to heart. And if there’s no other reason to watch this movie, watch it for Jon Voight, a winner of not only an Oscar but four Golden Globes as well. Voight settles into Eddie’s role as if it was made for him.
Divided into two parts, “The Five People You Meet in Heaven” runs for a total two hours and thirteen minutes. It’s well worth the time.