Born to be Sold

Born to be Sold is a riveting 1981 television movie filled with drama, emotion, and thrilling suspense. The film stars Lynda Carter, Harold Gould, and Philip Sterling, accomplished actors whose performances are nothing short of excellent. The movie explores the dark world of baby trafficking, while shedding light on important social issues. It's a gripping story that draws the audience into a harrowing underworld, while creating an engaging narrative with memorable characters.

Lynda Carter, known for her iconic role as Wonder Woman, effectively delivers a character much different from her superhero persona. In Born to be Sold, she performs the role of Kate Carlin – a fiery and daring social worker who fights relentlessly for justice. She finds herself embroiled in the world of illegal adoption, as she uncovers a shocking conspiracy with a sole purpose: babies being born to be sold.

Carter captivates audience attention throughout the movie, portraying the sense of passion and determination that her character, Kate, possesses. She brings a unique complexity to her role, highlighting both the hardened spirit that comes with her career, and the emotional vulnerability that fuels her fervor to defend those unable to protect themselves.

Harold Gould stars as Burroughs, a savvy and hard-nosed businessman who appears to have a ubiquitous presence in the illegal adoption ring. Gould is excellent in his role, creating a character that forms an intriguing juxtaposition to Carter's. The same can be said for Philip Sterling's character, as he contributes significantly to the movie's volatile climactic tension. Between Gould and Sterling, Carter’s character is pushed to exceed the limits, making the dynamic between these characters one of the film's key highlights.

Born to be Sold is not just a thrilling drama, but also a social commentary. The film dares to approach an uncomfortable topic – nefarious and illegal adoption rings preying on vulnerable young women and their newborns. It effectively highlights the plight of these victims, creating a clear depiction of the terrifying force and influence these operations can wield. At the same time, it tactfully conveys the message that the fight against such injustice must continue, with brave souls like Kate Carlin persisting, and pushing against the obstacles thrown in their paths.

The movie’s plot is intricate and filled with numerous twists and turns, often leaving the audience on the edge of their seats. Yet, the narrative never loses sight of its core theme – the struggle for justice against considerable odds, and the necessity of unyielding resolve in the face of overwhelming adversity.

The director paints an intense picture of gritty realism with this movie. The raw and, at times, graphic portrayals add to the film's authenticity, making it feel both incredibly engrossing and uncomfortably real. The film's cinematography stands out, capturing the ominous atmosphere to perfection, while the music score subtly enhances the suspenseful undertones of the story.

Alongside its intense drama and suspensful plot, Born to be Sold also exhibits moments of deep, heartfelt emotion. These come naturally, especially via the narratives of the young mothers, creating a significant emotional resonance that will have the viewer deeply invested in their outcomes.

Overall, Born to be Sold is a film that excellently combines elements of drama, suspense, and crime. Its thought-provoking narrative is well-executed from start to finish, anchored by strong performances from its lead stars. Lynda Carter shows us her acting range, moving beyond her comical role as Wonder Woman to portray a strong-willed social worker. With an intense storyline, powerful performances, and a poignant social message, Born to be Sold is a movie worth watching. It's a journey that will leave you contemplating long after the credits roll.