The original Waltons cast members are back for this heart-warming TV film, the first in a round of reunion movies based on the Emmy Award-winning series that ran from 1972-81. In 1963, the close-knit Virginia family gathers together to celebrate Thanksgiving at the old homestead. Their own personal problems are soon put on hold as the clan reacts to the assassination of President Kennedy, whose death changes the lives of many in the family. If you're not a fan of the popular series then there is no reason to sit through this one, but if you are, then there is fun to be had in seeing the familiar faces all grown up. Richard Thomas effectively reprises his role as John-Boy as do Ralph Waite and Michael Learned as Ma and Pa Walton. Although at times mawkish and obvious, it's all quite harmless, as holiday fare should be.

The fourth Waltons reunion TV movie is set in the 1960s , with John-Boy still living in New York, trying to persuade his fiancée to marry him. Meanwhile, Ben and Cindy's daughter Virginia has died, and Cindy is finding life very lonely without her. She tells Ben that she would dearly love to adopt another baby, but Ben feels that it is not a good idea. Ben argues with his father about buying a new truck for their lumber company, but John keeps insisting that they can't afford it. Elsewhere, Erin now has three children and is separated from Paul. Her decision to start seeing another man causes some indignation among the other Walton family members. Ike and Corabeth become grandparents when Aimee has a daughter, while Elizabeth returns from Europe and reunites with Drew, her old beau.