Redemption of the Ghost 2002

   A family is having a difficult time since the Dad has passed away.  Audrey, the Mom, is struggling to work, pay bill, take care of the house and her two young children, Jack and Cassie.  Aunt Helen has moved in with them to help out but the children easily get on her nerves.  Cassie has an imaginary friend who is a ghost and has appeared since she lost her Dad.  An escaped convict makes his way to their barn to rest and escape capture.  He listens to the children talk and finds out about Cassie's ghost friend, when the children surprise him in the barn, he explains that he is the ghost.  Jack isn't so sure but Cassie asks him why he has waited so long to appear in person to her.  They start off on a lot of adventures, he helps get an antique car stored in the barn running, takes them fishing and skipping stones.
    While the family is away from the house, Witt cleans up, changes out of the prison uniform into some of the Dad's clothing.  Because of the kindness of the children, he has had a change of heart about his life and plans.  He hops a train to get back the hidden bank money he's embezzled and he plans to turn himself in.  He returns the money to the bank, hops the train for the trip back and stops off at the General Store to trade in his watch for two new bikes that the children have been wanting but could not afford.  His plans to turn himself in become complicated due to an over zealous Sheriff.  This could be considered a "Hallmark Movie" but I thought it was enjoyable.  3 1/2* (I liked this movie)

110 min, Drama, directed by Richard Friedman with Diane Ladd as Aunt Helen, Alexandra Paul as Audrey, Scott Terra as Jack, Nicolette Little as Cassie and Gene Bicknell as Witt Hampton.

Note:  Blockbuster 3 1/2*, imdb 5.3 out of 10, 44% audience Rotten Tomatoes