The Ditchdigger's Daughters


The Ditchdigger's Daughters is a 1997 American television drama film directed by Johnny E. Jensen and written by Yvonne S. Thornton, Jo Coudert, and Paris Qualles, based on Thornton’s memoir.
The film stars Carl Lumbly, Kimberly Elise, Monique Coleman, and Dulé Hill. It aired on The Family Channel on February 23, 1997, and received three nominations at the 19th CableACE Awards performances, for Best Movie, Best Original Song with Kimberly Elise winning for a Supporting Actress in a Movie or Miniseries.

Plot

In 1940s New Jersey, Donald Thornton, a laborer who works long hours and builds his own home. He emphasizes discipline and education, encouraging his daughters to focus on their studies and avoid distractions. His six daughters are Jeanette, Yvonne, Donna, Linda, Rita, and Betty.
To help support the family and their education, the daughters, guided by their mother, Itasker Thornton, form a musical group called the Thornettes and. then the Thornton Sisters.

Cast

Production

Filming took place in Wilmington, North Carolina, at EUE Screen Gems Studios, Timme Building, Thalian Hall, Tileston School, Brewery East, and New Hanover High School, from November to December 1996. Paris Qualles adapted the screenplay from Yvonne Thornton’s memoir, with contributions from Jo Coudert, and expanded storylines to explore the daughters’ experiences.

Release

The Ditchdigger's Daughters premiered on The Family Channel on February 23, 1997.

Reception

The film received positive reviews for its story and performances. Lena Williams of The New York Times described it as "heartwarming" and noted its focus on perseverance and family unity. In a review published by the Chicago Tribune, the film was described as a well-intentioned and engaging adaptation that conveyed the core message of the source memoir but necessarily condensed its complexity due to time constraints.
Kimberly Elise won the CableACE Award for Supporting Actress in a Movie or Miniseries for her portrayal of Jeanette Thornton.