The Miracle Worker (1962) Review in 2025
A biographical drama film about the life of Helen Keller and her teacher Anne Sullivan, based on the play by William Gibson.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This film is suitable for family viewing, but parental discretion is advised due to some emotional and intense scenes.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is worth watching for its powerful performances, engaging story, and historical significance. It's suitable for streaming or watching in theaters, but parental discretion is advised due to some emotional and intense scenes.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film tells the story of Helen Keller, a deaf and blind girl who is unable to communicate with her family. Anne Sullivan, a young and determined teacher, is hired to teach Helen and eventually helps her to communicate and learn.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is well-written and engaging, with a clear focus on the relationship between Helen and Anne. The film's pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of emotional and intense scenes.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb, with both Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke delivering outstanding performances. The chemistry between the two leads is undeniable, and their performances bring depth and emotion to the film.
characters9.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Anne Bancroft delivering a standout performance as Anne Sullivan. Patty Duke also shines as Helen Keller, bringing depth and emotion to the role.
direction8.00/10
Arthur Penn's direction is solid, with a clear vision for the film. However, some scenes feel a bit staged and lacking in naturalism.
cinematography7.50/10
The cinematography is decent, with some nice shots of the characters and settings. However, the film's color palette is somewhat muted, which can make some scenes feel a bit dull.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's powerful performances, engaging story, and historical significance make it a must-watch. The chemistry between Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke is undeniable, and their performances bring depth and emotion to the film.
Cons
Some scenes feel a bit staged and lacking in naturalism, and the film's color palette is somewhat muted. However, these minor flaws do not detract from the overall impact of the film.
Notable Quotes
"I don't want to be a burden to anyone."
"You're not a teacher, you're a miracle worker."
