Review of The Miracle Worker (1962) by Nathan G — 30 Nov 2007

"The Miracle Worker" is based on the play by William Gibson, which portrays the efforts of Anne Sullivan to teach the deaf and blind child Helen Keller discipline and a method of communication. Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke refined their roles as Anne and Helen on Broadway before making this film, and it shows, with both delivering first-rate performances. The supporting roles were well-cast as well, especially the rest of the members of the Keller family.

The efforts of Anne are thoroughly engrossing as she tries to strengthen her tumultuous relationship with Helen and teach her simultaneously. Anne adopts a stringent approach, and it is apparent that it is necessary for Helen's benefit. There is a remarkable intense and deliberately protracted scene that shows the frustrating effort involved in getting Helen to fold a napkin and eat dinner with a spoon. The ending is simply amazing and practically guaranteed to be touching for any viewer.