'Don't Sweat the Small Stuff: The Kristine Carlson Story' Review: A test of strength
Lifetime just dropped a brand new movie and it's a touching watch. 'Don't Sweat the Small Stuff: The Kristine Carlson Story' is the latest addition to the channel's commendable collection of films. 'Don't Sweat the Small Stuff: The Kristine Carlson Story' follows the true story of Kristine Carlson, co-author of the best-selling book series 'Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff 'with her husband, Dr. Richard Carlson.
When Kristine's (Heather Locklear) life comes crashing down after the unexpected, tragic death of her husband Richard ( Jason MacDonald) she must learn to live life anew as she navigates a different reality along with her daughters Jazzy (Natasha Bure) and Kenna (Ella Dorsch). Here are our thoughts on the Lifetime drama.
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We meet Kristine as she gets a call informing her of her husband's passing. We see the devasted wife break down as we are taken back 10 years when all was well. Richard and Kristine are a loving couple who are very in sync with each other. Richard an author tells his wife about a new job offer in HR which will give him a handsome salary. Kristine says no as he's an author and that it's his calling. As they contemplate the decision their daughters run in saying Oprah's on the phone. Oprah loves his book and wants him on the show. From there Richard sees grand success which brings us back to the present. Kristine is asked to write the book 'Don't Sweat the Small Stuff: For Women' by Richard before he leaves for his flight. It is then we see the continuation of the opening scene. A pulmonary embolism kills Richard as Kristine's life comes crashing down.
The movie is an inspiring watch as we see the single mom of two and widow struggle through daily life without the support of her pillar. The death of a loved one and the aftermath are portrayed realistically as we see each of the family members cope differently. Jazzy lashing out, Kenna getting subdued and Kristine putting on a brave face showed the various ways people deal with grief. As Kristine pushes through we can't help but send her our support and well wishes. Heather Locklear does a good job of portraying the one who's just lost their soulmate but has to smile through the pain for the sake of her kids, to establish some normalcy. As the family butt heads only to come together later we feel a twinge of pain for the ladies who've lost their rock. We get a happy end as Kristine finally feels better and steps up to fill her husband's shoes personally and professionally.
'Don't Sweat the Small Stuff: The Kristine Carlson Story' is a sweet watch that centers around love and perseverance. A family-oriented drama you can tune into it anytime. Although it may get boring at parts, the need to watch the Carlson's make it through the worst is what will keep you watching. The movie gives the message that time heals all and that we must have faith and trust in the process.
You can watch 'Don't Sweat the Small Stuff: The Kristine Carlson Story' on Lifetime.