MovieChat Forums > Children of a Lesser God (1986) Discussion > Now one of my favorite movies.

Now one of my favorite movies.

posted 17 years ago by MeanCreekfan
1 reply | jump to latest

I rented this movie from Netflix because I've become a huge fan of William Hurt's work over the past two years. I am 22, so he is a bit before my time. I can't believe it's taken me this long to discover this film. It's just so beautiful, honest, heartwarming, and most of all realistic. The relationship and chemistry between the two leads is sensational. The writing is terrific. And the acting is SO good. Especially from Marlee Matlin. I can't even imagine how hard it would be to give that kind of a performance where you only move your hands. Really incredible. Koodos to the wonderful Hurt as well for playing so well off of her.

I had a few questions though. 1.)why have I never heard of anyone talk about this movie and how spectacular it is? Did it not do well at the box office when it first came out? I know it was nominated for Oscars (and even won one) and Golden Globes. And 2.)For people who are either deaf or know sign language well, how accurate were Hurt/Matlin in their signing?

"Rather than love, than money, than fame, give me truth." -Thoreau

[–] minitrickster 15 years ago

Sorry, I don't think I can help you on the first question, but I can answer the other questions. At first it did not make alot of money in the box office. Matlin discusses in her book "I'll Scream Later" that she was in rehab during the filming of this. This also is a movie MOST hearing people have no knowledge of and maybe afraid to look at the Deaf world. They both were very accurate. Matlin of course being Deaf signed accurately (and fast, Deaf people sign fast)and Hurt had to learn sign language specifically for the film. Probvably with some help from Matlin). Hope this helps.