PERFECT MOTHER, THE (CBS-TVM 2/18/97)

Since self-made immigrant Nico Podaras's death, widow Elenie (Tyne Daly) runs his lucrative garage, with an illegal side business, generously using the profits to keep control of their three sons' lives. Simpleton Dan is happy to sire the crucial heir without hesitation to keep unruly, immature wife Charlene in line, but goes to far, so she absconds pregnant. Firstborn John gave up his dream, fishery, to work in the garage. When he marries Kathryn (Ione Skye), she starts questioning and resisting Elenie's matriarchal manipulation, but bares her a grandson. The conflict escalates, leaving John torn between loyalties. Also stars Mary Kay Place.