In a Child's Name DVD brings the haunting 1991 CBS miniseries into your home library, offering a complete presentation of one of the most unsettling true-crime dramas of the early 1990s. Based on Peter Maas's book, the film dramatizes the murder of Teresa Taylor and the painful custody fight that followed. For collectors of true crime, made-for-TV movies, or Valerie Bertinelli performances, this DVD is a significant piece of broadcast history.
The miniseries originally aired in two parts, and the DVD preserves that full narrative without commercial breaks. It is not a flashy Hollywood thriller; it is a character-driven courtroom and family drama that lingers because the events actually happened. This guide covers the story, the cast, the DVD's technical presentation, and how to track down a copy.
Understanding the In a Child's Name Miniseries
In a Child's Name is a two-part television miniseries that first aired on CBS in November 1991. It was directed by Robert Markowitz and adapted from Peter Maas's nonfiction book. The story blends domestic terror with legal procedure, following a family's effort to find justice and protect a young child. The DVD release lets viewers watch the story as a single, uninterrupted piece or in its original two-part structure, depending on the edition.
Unlike many modern true-crime productions, the miniseries avoids graphic reenactments and sensational pacing. Instead, it focuses on the slow unraveling of a marriage, the warning signs that were ignored, and the emotional toll on Teresa's family. That restraint is part of why the In a Child's Name DVD remains compelling decades later.
The True Story and Central Conflict
The miniseries is based on the real case of Teresa Benigno Taylor, a young wife and mother who was murdered by her husband, Kenneth Taylor. Ken was a dentist with a charming public face, but behind closed doors he was controlling and violent. When Teresa tried to reclaim her independence, the situation turned deadly. Her disappearance initially seemed like a missing-person case, but her family's persistence exposed the truth.
The title refers to the battle over the couple's son, Philip. After Teresa's murder, a custody dispute erupted between Teresa's family and Ken's family. The fight was not just about where the child would live, but about whose name and memories would shape his future. The DVD captures that legal and emotional struggle with unusual sensitivity.
Valerie Bertinelli and Michael Ontkean Lead the Cast
Valerie Bertinelli stars as Teresa Taylor, delivering a performance that balances warmth, vulnerability, and quiet strength. Known for her comedic work on One Day at a Time, Bertinelli proved she could carry a dramatic role with real weight. Her Teresa is not a passive victim; she is a woman trying to protect her son and herself from a man she once loved.
Michael Ontkean plays Kenneth Taylor with a chilling blend of charisma and menace. His portrayal makes Ken's manipulation believable, which makes the tragedy hit harder. The supporting cast, including the actors playing Teresa's sister and the family attorney, adds texture to the courtroom and family scenes. The In a Child's Name DVD gives these performances room to breathe without broadcast interruptions.
DVD Features, Availability, and Viewing Tips
Most In a Child's Name DVD editions present the miniseries in its original full-frame 1.33:1 aspect ratio, which matches the 1991 broadcast. Audio is typically English stereo or mono, and some releases may include closed captions or subtitles. Special features are minimal, often limited to scene selection or a simple menu. The main attraction is the complete miniseries itself, not bonus content.
Because the title is a niche TV movie, the DVD may be out of print or available only through third-party sellers. Prices can vary widely depending on condition, packaging, and region. If you are region-locked, confirm that the disc is compatible with your player. A Region 1 NTSC copy is standard for North American viewers, while other regions may require a multi-region DVD player.
Picture and Sound Quality Expectations
Do not expect a modern remaster. In a Child's Name was shot on film for television and finished in standard definition. The DVD transfer likely comes from a broadcast master, so you may notice softness, grain, and occasional specks. Colors are natural but muted, reflecting the era's television aesthetic. For many viewers, that vintage look adds to the atmosphere rather than detracting from it.
Dialogue is clear and central to the experience. The score and ambient sound are mixed for television speakers, so a basic soundbar or TV speakers will work fine. If you are watching on a large 4K screen, the upscaling will make the standard-definition source more obvious. A smaller screen or a dedicated DVD player can provide a more forgiving presentation.
Where to Buy and What to Check Before Purchasing
You can search for the In a Child's Name DVD on major online marketplaces, used media stores, and library book sales. eBay, Amazon third-party sellers, and specialty DVD sites often list copies. Prices range from reasonable to surprisingly high when the title is scarce. Set a price alert if you are patient, and compare listings for disc condition and seller feedback.
Before buying, verify the region code, the number of discs, and whether the listing includes the complete two-part miniseries. Some sellers may list a VHS transfer or a burned disc, so read the description carefully. If you only want to watch once, check your local library or streaming rental services first. For collectors, a physical DVD remains the most reliable way to own this title.
For anyone drawn to true-crime stories that focus on human consequences rather than shock value, the In a Child's Name DVD offers a sobering and well-acted experience. It preserves a specific moment in television history and a family's fight for justice. If you decide to add it to your shelf, take the time to watch it attentively—the story deserves that respect.