William Hurt is James, a sympathetic and talented speech therapist in a school for the deaf. Newcomer Marlee Matlin is Sarah, his most difficult pupil – barricaded emotionally against the silent world that has hurt her. She refuses his help but becomes his lover.
Matlin, who is hearing impaired in real life, makes the sentimental, conventional story glow with life and energy.
Her pride, egotism, and angry humour give Hurt something real to play against. The result is an emotional tug-of-war that is mesmerising.
The film is basically a two-character play in which only one character does all the talking, but its sensitivity and heart are undeniable.
James
William Hurt
Sarah
Marlee Matlin
Mrs Norman
Piper Laurie
Dr Curtis Franklin
Philip Bosco
Lydia
Alison Gompf
Johnny
John F. Cleary
Alan Jones
John Basinger
Glen
Philip Holmes
Cheryl
Georgia Ann Cline
Danny
William D. Byrd
Tony
Frank Carter Jr.
William
John Limnidis
Orin
Bob Hiltermann
Mary Lee Ochs
E. Katherine Kerr
Tom Schuyler
Barry Magnani
Director
Randa Haines