SYBIL

Sybil is a landmark television movie on several fronts. First, it came at a time when TV movies were being made about more serious subjects, and this film helped blaze the trail further. Sybil, as you might know from many a pop culture reference, is about a woman with multiple personalities. In the case of Sybil Dorsett, 16 different personalities, unbeknownst to her, were running around inside her head. The other notable thing about this film is that producers chose Sally Field as the lead, an actress who previously had been known for far less serious roles in sitcoms like The Flying Nun and Gidget. Though the following year would find her appearing in Smokey and the Bandit (reportedly one of her favorite films), Sybil opened the door to her successful run as a dramatic actress. The film holds up well 30 years later and not only features a riveting performance from Field but also fine support from Joanne Woodward and Brad Davis. Extras include interviews with Field and Woodward as well as screenwriter Stewart Stern. (P.F. Wilson) Grade: A