Joni (film)


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, 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.

Plot

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.

Cast

Joni premiered on October 24, 1980, in Los Angeles. It played in New York on March 4, 1983.

Reception

of The New York Times wrote the film is made more interesting and poignant by casting Tada as herself. TV Guide rated it 2/4 stars and called Tada "a natural actress".