“Family Tree” Offers Heartwarming Entertainment For Parents And Children Alike

(May 11, 2000 – Burbank, CA) – On August 15, Warner Home Video (WHV) will release “Family Tree,” bringing viewers an inspirational tale about the importance of holding fast to your beliefs. “This one is special…” said Jeffrey Lyons of WNBC-TV during the film’s April, 2000, theatrical release, “children will enjoy seeing a boy with gumption standing up for what is right.” This touching family film is highlighted by a debut dramatic performance from music superstar Naomi Judd. Robert Foster (“Jackie Brown,” “Psycho”), Andy Lawrence (“Jack Frost,” “Bean”), Matt Lawrence (“Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Boy Meets World”) and Academy Award-winner Cliff Robertson round out the seasoned cast. The film also boasts a hit music soundtrack, featuring songs by LeAnn Rimes, Jo Dee Messina, The Judds, Shane McAnally and Mary Griffin. “Family Tree” tells the story of a 9-year old boy (Mitch, played by Andy Lawrence) who sets out to save a very special tree when he discovers his father is planning to build a factory on the site of the town’s legendary landmark, “Old Oak.” The film follows Mitch as he rallies friends and neighbors in hopes of saving the beloved oak. A tree in his own family’s backyard inspired director Duane Clark to participate in this project. It is the continuity that a tree represents, he believes, that fosters people’s love for them: “The presence of a tree in a town is an anchor,” Clark said. Clark feels that there is a strong market for films like “Family Tree” that parents can enjoy with their children. “'Family Tree’ is an inspirational story about maintaining one’s ideals in even the most adverse circumstances,” said Clare Lukasik, Warner Home Video director of Family Entertainment, Marketing. “It’s easy to forget what is really important in life. ‘Family Tree’ reminds us of the things that really matter.” With operations in 78 international territories -- more than the video division of any other studio -- Warner Home Video commands the largest distribution infrastructure in the global video marketplace. WHV'S film library is the largest of any studio, offering top quality new and vintage titles from the repertoires of Warner Bros. Pictures, Turner Home Entertainment, Castle Rock Entertainment, HBO Home Video and New Line Home Video. # # #