Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Anthony Geary | ... | Dr. Kyle Richards | |
Judith Light | ... | Marsha | |
Mark Harmon | ... | Tommy | |
Arthur Hill | ... | Dr. Holliston | |
Brian Kerwin | ... | Nick Todd | |
Penny Fuller | ... | Joanna Fairmont | |
Cindy Fisher | ... | Kate Fairmont | |
Lori Lethin | ... | Connie Todd | |
Robert Vaughn | ... | Dave Fairmont | |
Shawn Schepps | ... | Lisa Corwin | |
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Harrigan Logan | ||
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Rebecca Birken | ... | Ginny |
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Leigh Christian | ... | Marilyn |
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Norma Donaldson | ... | Dr. Bryce |
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James S. Henerson | ... | Bartender (as Jim Henerson) |
A young doctor (Anthony Geary) takes a summer position managing an older doctor's office on a resort island in the Hamptons where he makes the disturbing discovery that herpes is running rampant throughout the affluent community. As Dr. Richards gets to know people better he learns just how much this silent epidemic has hurt real people. He is frustrated by the community's denial and makes the bold and extremely unpopular decision to go public with the epidemic to raise greater public awareness about the problem. Written by Dollanganger
Knowing that "Intimate Agony" was an early '80s made for television movie that dealt with the hot topic of herpes, I was prepared for a treatment that would come across as somewhat campy thirty years later. But for the most part, I didn't find it that way. While there are a few brief nervous giggles here and there, the movie overall comes across as a serious and sober look at a sensitive topic. The view of herpes is balanced, showing that the infected can often lead fulfilling lives despite the disease, but also showing that some people in some circumstances can have their lives ruined or severely damaged by an infection to themselves or close people in their lives. The acting is pretty good, with special kudos going to Anthony Geary as the doctor who realizes he has to do something about the epidemic. This isn't a "fun" movie, but if you watch it when you are in the mood for something more serious, chances are you'll find it surprisingly compelling.