Joni is a 1980 drama film directed by James F. Collier. It is based on the book of the same name and is the true story of Joni Eareckson Tada (played by herself), a seventeen-year-old girl who becomes paralyzed after a diving accident. Through her physical, emotional and spiritual struggles, Joni learns to trust in God. Billy Graham financed the film through his company World Wide Pictures and appears in a cameo.[1]
Joni | |
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Directed by | James F. Collier |
Screenplay by | James F. Collier |
Based on | Joni by Joni Eareckson and Joe Musser |
Produced by | Frank R. Jacobson |
Starring | Joni Eareckson Tada |
Cinematography | Frank Raymond |
Edited by | Duane Hartzell |
Music by |
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Production company | World Wide Pictures |
Distributed by | World Wide Pictures |
Release date |
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Running time | 107 minutes |
Country | United States |
Language | English |
Budget | $2 million[1] |
In 1967, at age 17, Joni Eareckson is involved in a diving accident that leaves her a quadriplegic. As she attempts to come to terms with her new disability, her Christian faith grows.
Joni premiered on October 24, 1980, in Los Angeles. It played in New York City on March 4, 1983.[2]
Janet Maslin of The New York Times wrote the film is made more interesting and poignant by casting Tada as herself.[3] TV Guide rated it 2/4 stars and called Tada "a natural actress".[4]
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