Looking like a subplot with characters spun off from "Little House on the Prairie", this Disney film might have benefitted and seen by more people had it premiered on commercial TV rather than a theatrical release. It's simple and intimate, not exactly a popcorn movie, and not something that movie audiences would rush out to see in a movie theater due to the special subject matter.
That being stated, it's a well meaning sentimental drama where a novice teacher (Jenny Agutter) leaves husband Chris Robinson and becomes a groundbreaking instructor teaching deaf students how to talk. Usually cast in vivacious roles, stage veteran Nanette Fabray is cast against type as the veteran teacher certain that Agutter will fail.
Doctor Barry Newman becomes her staunt supporter, helping her deal with the opposition she faces and the shock of Robinson's arrival. Also becoming her friends among the staff one time child star Margaret O'Brien and the loveable Lucille Benson. The kids too fall under her spell and begin to blossom under her watch, even starting to become involved with local young boys playing football, teaching "normal" kids about reality, acceptance and compassion. Well acted and fortunately not overly sweet or lecturing. Not sure how realistic this would be in 1911, but definitely a film filled with tons of hope.
That being stated, it's a well meaning sentimental drama where a novice teacher (Jenny Agutter) leaves husband Chris Robinson and becomes a groundbreaking instructor teaching deaf students how to talk. Usually cast in vivacious roles, stage veteran Nanette Fabray is cast against type as the veteran teacher certain that Agutter will fail.
Doctor Barry Newman becomes her staunt supporter, helping her deal with the opposition she faces and the shock of Robinson's arrival. Also becoming her friends among the staff one time child star Margaret O'Brien and the loveable Lucille Benson. The kids too fall under her spell and begin to blossom under her watch, even starting to become involved with local young boys playing football, teaching "normal" kids about reality, acceptance and compassion. Well acted and fortunately not overly sweet or lecturing. Not sure how realistic this would be in 1911, but definitely a film filled with tons of hope.