The title “Children of a Lesser God” had me hooked by how interesting it sounds. But the romance genre, devoid of the comedic part, made me refrain from watching. High praise of the actors and accolades the film garnered kept it in my queue, and I finally gave it a shot.
After a premiere screening at the Berlin International Film Festival, “Children of a Lesser God” reached theaters in October of 1986. Written by Hesper Anderson and Mark Medoff, the screenplay is based off the latter’s 1979 play. Directed by Randa Haines, it would go on to five Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, losing out to “Platoon.”
Captivating Plot
The trope is consistent, but enjoyable every time I encounter it. An unorthodox teacher arrives at an uptight school, butting heads with the establishment while simultaneously earning the respect of the students.
James Leeds (William Hurt) is the newest teacher at a persnickety school for the deaf and hard of hearing in New England. Leeds is a charismatic sort. His students reject him initially, but he quickly charms them with his energetic demeanor and innovative teaching methods.
Outside of the classroom, a school custodian named Sarah (Marlee Matlin) catches James’ eye. Sarah was once a promising student at the school but is now a hot-tempered malcontent who the staff avoids. James begins to court Sarah, despite the faux pas associated with intermingling co-workers and the perceived stigma between a deaf and hearing person dating.
Mega Acting
William Hurt is a true thespian. I’ve watched him in several afterthought movies like “Gorky Park,” “Rare Birds,” and “The Village” and am always captivated by his performance.
Hurt shines once again in the portrayal of James Leeds. It’s a character we can quickly get behind. He has a zest for teaching and a true devotion to his students. His love of music is incorporated into his lessons in touching ways. I was pleased to discover William Hurt learned ASL for the performance. His presence on screen demands I will be check out more of his work.
I first encountered Marlee Matlin as a deaf lineswoman that Jerry dates in an episode of Seinfeld. Her performance here is a thing of legend. Matlin defines the character of Sarah not because they are both deaf, but because her rambunctious attitude feels so real. The chemistry between Matlin and Hurt energizes romance in a way not often seen on film. Marlee Matlin was just 21 years old at the time and became the youngest person to ever win Best Actress. She is also the first deaf winner in Oscar history.
Beautiful Cinematography
I love the old Paramount logo that opens the movie, as the credits roll over the muted colors of the mid-80s. Sigh, they don’t make ‘em like this anymore.
“Children of a Lesser God” was filmed in New Brunswick, despite its Maine setting. The Rothesay Netherwood School would serve as the primary location, with the picturesque beauty of the seaside Canadian province adding depth to the surrounding areas. Filming took place in the fall of 1985, and the colors and backdrops are simply amazing.
Critiques
Originally crafted as a play, some of the direction runs a tad askew from traditional film. The primary culprit being the decision not to use subtitles in a dialogue heavy story.
The result is James Leeds repeating everything aloud that is signed by Sarah. I understand this is required for a play, since there would be no way for the audience to understand the signing.
While nothing was too terrible, I found a few times the movie would have been better served with subtitles, particularly with the emotionally deep conversations. It’s a minor criticism. While occasionally distracting, it doesn’t take away from the overall beauty of the story.
Should you watch?
Yes! Even if romance isn’t your typically sought genre. “Children of a Lesser God” is a great film, deserving of its praise.
The slow pace doesn’t linger more than needed. The film takes its time and lets a pair of great actors do their thing.
