Watch Johnny Belinda

Johnny Belinda is a 1948 American drama film directed by Jean Negulesco and starring Jane Wyman, Lew Ayres, and Charles Bickford. The film was adapted from a play by Elmer Blaney Harris. The story is set on a remote island off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, in the late 19th century. The island is populated by a small fishing community, and the people are rugged and tough, living on the brink of poverty. The film focuses on the life of Belinda McDonald, a young girl who is deaf and mute. She lives with her father, Black McDonald, a rough and tough fisherman who loves his daughter, but has no idea how to communicate with her.

Belinda's only friend is Stella, a kind-hearted woman who tries to help her in any way she can. When Dr. Robert Richardson, a new doctor, arrives on the island, he takes an interest in Belinda and her condition. He tries to teach her sign language so that she can communicate with him and others.

However, not everyone on the island is happy about Dr. Richardson's interest in Belinda. Lucas, an aggressive and jealous man who wants to marry Stella, starts to spread rumors about the doctor and Belinda. He tells everyone that they are having an affair and that the doctor is taking advantage of her disability. This leads to a confrontation between Lucas and the doctor, and things come to a head when Belinda becomes pregnant.

The movie explores themes of prejudice, misunderstanding, and the resilience of the human spirit. Jane Wyman delivers a stunning performance as Belinda, portraying the character with great sensitivity and depth. Her quiet moments of contemplation and her evocative facial expressions convey a wide range of emotions without the need for dialogue.

Lew Ayres is equally impressive as the compassionate and dedicated doctor who becomes Belinda's friend and ally. He brings a quiet strength and tenderness to the role, making it easy to understand why Belinda would trust him and rely on him.

Charles Bickford is convincing as the gruff and stoic Black McDonald, a man who loves his daughter but struggles to understand her. He brings a sense of authenticity to the character, making him a sympathetic figure despite his flaws.

The film's cinematography is also noteworthy. The stark beauty of the Newfoundland landscape is captured in sweeping shots that convey both its majesty and its harshness. The use of light and shadow also adds to the film's atmospheric quality, creating a sense of intimacy and emotional depth.

Overall, Johnny Belinda is a powerful and moving film that explores the complexity and fragility of human relationships. It is a testament to the enduring power of love and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Johnny Belinda is a 1948 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.