The Next Best Thing

 

Abbie (Madonna) convinces her best friend Robert (Rupert Everett) to have a baby with her, notwithstanding the fact that Rufus is gay.  For five years they raise little Sam -- then Abbie falls in love with a straight man (Benjamin Bratt) and decides to move away, taking Sam with her.  Robert is not about to let this happen -- if Abbie wants a nasty custody fight, that's what she is going to get. 

Meanwhile, Robert's' mother Helen (Lynn Redgrave) acts as a referee in the ongoing battle between Robert and his less-than-understanding father.

Directed by John Schlesinger (Midnight Cowboy, Cold Comfort Farm).