MovieChat Forums > The Miracle Worker (1962) Discussion > This film always breaks my heart...

This film always breaks my heart...

posted 15 years ago by bettiegia
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I have a child with Down Syndrome, and whenever I see Patty Duke's incredible performance as a deaf and blind child it just pulls my heartstrings. She absolutely has it down, the way many special needs children gesture and try to speak. The way they are often in their own world much of the time. The story is written so well too...the way Helen's parents struggle to deal with a growing, frustrated child. Can you imagine trying to raise a special needs child in 1870? It's difficult enough now with all the help and resources that are available to parents. Great movie!!

[–] practicepiano 15 years ago

I agree that the playwright, actors and director really "got it."

It does a good job of showing how expectations and education are more valuable, to a beloved child with difficulties, than pity (A Child is Waiting is another film that does this well).

And I hope that, like the story of Helen, your child's story is one of triumph and, in the end, happiness.