Balloon Farm is a 1999 American fantasy comedy television film directed by William Dear, written by Steven M. Karczynski, and starring Rip Torn, Mara Wilson and Laurie Metcalf. It premiered on ABC on March 28, 1999, as part of The Wonderful World of Disney series. It is based on the 1994 book Harvey Potter's Balloon Farm by Jerdine Nolen.
Contents
Plot
The farming community of Watertown is struggling to survive a severe drought. Harvey Potter arrives in the community by renting a farm, which neighbors think is foolish. However, one day young Willow Johnson passes by Potter's field to find his crop is full of magical, colorful balloons. Townspeople, with the exception of Weasel Mayfield, believe that this a good sign that the drought may end soon. When the rough times continue to plague the community, the community turns against Harvey until Willow reminds everyone about the power of faith and the magic that Harvey has brought through the balloons.
Cast
Rip Torn as Harvey Potter
Mara Wilson as Willow Johnson
Roberts Blossom as Weasel Mayfield
Fredric Lane as Jake Johnson
Laurie Metcalf as Casey Johnson
Richard Riehle as Earl
Ernie Lively as Tom Williams
Arnetia Walker as Crystal
Lee Garlington as Maggie
Guy Boyd as Mayor
Neal McDonough as Sheriff
Ken Jenkins as Banker
Adam Wylie as Charles
Rudee Lipscomb as Marcy
Home media
The film was released on DVD by Walt Disney Home Video on July 6, 2004. The title was also made available for streaming and download.