196 of 1001 Movies: Children of a Lesser God (1986)

Why are the women directors all so far from the 80's? Anyways, Randa Haines has put together quite an intriguing, emotionally, stirring movie. William Hurt is a strong actor in whatever he does, and while he might be very character actor in nature, I could see him being the Ryan Gosling of his day. He has great chemistry with Marlee Matlin in this very insightful romance that also immerses you in the world of the deaf.  I hadn't saw a movie like it before, and appreciated the unique plot line.

Summary: James arrives as a new speech teacher at a school for the deaf. Once there he meets some hesitant students who have their own reasons for remaining silent. There is also a janitor who works the school who gets James' attention. He is also determined to get her to speak despite her lifelong stance against speaking and just being her own silent world. James falls in love with her in the middle of his pursuit though, but Sarah is hesitant to get into a relationship unless he can accept her comfortableness not speaking.