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Ahead of its time: “The Children's Hour”

The 1960s wasn't a time one would equate with progressive lesbian movies. Yet the 1961 release of The Children's Hour brought subject matter previously considered verboten to the forefront. Starring Audrey Hepburn, Shirley Maclaine and James Garner, this ground-breaking film, based on the screenplay by Lillian Hellman, confronts the rumors and accusations of lesbianism between schoolmarms Karen Wright (Hepburn), and Martha Dobie (Maclaine), the effects it has on their school, their relationships, and their lives.

A whispered lie by a troublemaking and spoiled student leads to the turmoil that weaves its way throughout the community. Accusations and denials, students pulled from the school, gawking passersby, and an eventual lawsuit—machinations based on a child's lone statement—play into the storyline. Wright's fiancée, Dr. Joe (Garner), stands ever faithful at her side, and Dobie's as well, ridiculing the accusations, eventually losing his job due to his association with the two scorned women. It is only at Wright's insistence that things could never be the same between them, does Dr. Joe finally leave.

The intense interaction between all key players, especially Wright and Dobie, is what makes this movie so outstanding. When confronted with the rumors, neither woman expresses disgust at the thought, simply disappointment with the accuser. Wright and Dobie stand above the fray, becoming support for one another as their lives crumble around them.

Although a little overdramatic, The Children's Hour is definitely a movie ahead of its time. A dramatic entreaty at the movie's close, brilliantly done by Maclaine, reflects thoughts and feelings many lesbians have felt at one time or another, and the unexpected, heartbreaking ending will have you in tears. A must-see movie!

Rating: (on a scale of 1-5, with one being poor and five as excellent)
The Children's Hour

The Children's Hour Director: William Wyler Starring: Audrey Hepburn, Shirley MacLaine, James Garner Released: 1961 | Rated: NR Category: Drama | Length: 107 minutes Retail: $19.98 Format: VHS Click here to buy THE CHILDREN'S HOUR

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