The Children's Hour

A really powerful and chilling film that was many years ahead of many films when it comes to the issue of sexual orientation. Two old girlfriends run a school quietly, but they have no idea what one vindictive girl can be capable of (let's face it, the little brat was a real bitch who deserved a shovel to the head). Their lives will be changed by one (not so) false accusation and nothing will ever be the same. Returning to the original reality won't be easy at all. Great performances by Audrey Hepburn, Shirley MacLaine and the young Karen Balkin (Mary). I felt anger while watching because I was incredibly annoyed at how everyone believed the little *****, and then how the fates of the two main characters unfolded. A thought-provoking film that highlights a problem that has persisted to this day - intolerance towards sexual orientation. (08/10/2010)