In 1997, a movie version of my memoir, The Ditchdigger’s Daughters, aired on The Family Channel. And while the film covers only a fraction of the book, it was still a thrill to see the actors playing the roles of my family members and me.
The film was never released commercially on DVD and seemed all but forgotten. Imagine my surprise when I discovered that BET network was broadcasting my story – and lots of people on Facebook are talking about it. I caught the film version last weekend as a movie premiere on BET, which makes me think that it might be broadcast again, so you should check the schedules.
Of course, Hollywood likes to focus on the conflict, so the movie was more about the struggles between my father and my older sister, Jeanette and less about what made the book a bestseller: how my father and mother overcame incredible obstacles to build a better life for their daughters.
It’s fun to watch but if you really want the whole story, I hope you’ll read the book.
And if you want to know what happens after that book ends, please keep an eye out for my next memoir, Something to Prove, scheduled to be published in December.
- Yvonne S. Thornton, MD, MPH
i missed the movie on BET (june 13 2010)…does anyone know when it will air again
It comes on BET July 11, 2010 at 5:30 pm EST…I already have my dvr set! I can’t wait!
Is there anyway that this movie can be purchased?
can i get a copy of the movie based on your family 2 copies please just like the way i was raised my a strict mom who wanted all girls to be nurses their are three of us one is an lpn i am a nurses tech i was head strong like your sister janette i can relate to her much lol my other sister worked as medical secretary but works at a restaurant now this movie brings back memories it came out the year my daughter was born she want to be a animal doctor please tell how much it wiil cost thank u peace love and happiness
Where can I purchase the cd?
it is on RIGHT NOW. sun 15 august . it started at 7pm (est).
Dr. Thornton,
My grandfather was a ditchdigger, illerate, who had quit school when he was in the fourth grade, but he always demanded that his children do better than he. I found your book about your father incredibly inspirational and am VERY interested in finding the dvd!!
I would like to purchase the dvd
I would like to purchas the dvd
Looking for the perfect Christmas gift and thought immediately of your book. Your story has made a lasting impact on my life.
I have been trying to purchase “The Ditchdigger’s Daughters” movie, but I can’t seem to locate it. Do you know where I can find a copy?
This movie is so inspirational. I have to show it to my family. They have got to put this movie on DVD.
I have been looking for this movie for years. It is not even listed on Carl Lumbly movie credits. It is an excellent movie. I hope it is put out on DVD as well as Tiny Valentines.
where can i get the movie