Thursday, June 16, 2011

The Children's Hour (1961)

Notes: 6/16/11
Two women are accused of 'unnatural behavior'.
The situation that the three leads are in is tragic and frustrating.
Fay Bainter has a few good scenes. Makes it clear she's the HBIC.
Karen Balkin has a bullying physical presence, but is an embarrassing actress.
Miriam Hopkins is memorable as MacLaine's aunt.
Wyler gets some solid performances and doesn't let things get too maudlin.

Review: B
Audrey Hepburn and Shirley MacLaine are close friends who run a school for young girls. When one of the girls decides to spread a false rumor about them, a frustrating and tragic series of events unfolds. Effective performances and a controversial subject are well-handled by director William Wyler. Audrey and Shirley are ideally matched in the lead roles, while Bainter and Hopkins are most entertaining in support.

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