Known for directing pretty hopeless thrillers like Still Life and Man in the Attic, Graeme Campbell is perhaps an odd choice for this family melodrama. Based on a true story, it centres on a compulsive wife-beater's attempts to save his marriage by undergoing counselling. John Ritter is perhaps not everyone's idea of an abusive thug, but he nevertheless turns in a creditable performance, and he's neatly supported by Harley Jane Kozak. While it raises several important issues and offers some solace to those in similar situations, this slice of sensationalism dressed as sincerity will fool no one.

Paul Hegstrom is a so-called family man who puts his wife through domestic violence and his children through emotional torture. After leaving his family and almost killing his new girlfriend in one of his rages, Paul is ordered to either seek professional help through an innovative therapy program or go to jail.