Watch The Raging Moon

The Raging Moon is a touching drama made in 1971, directed by Bryan Forbes and starring Malcolm McDowell, Nanette Newman, and Georgia Brown. The movie is based on the novel by Peter Marshall, and it tells the story of Bruce Pritchard, an energetic and carefree young man who becomes paralyzed from the waist down after a serious accident.

The film opens with Bruce at the hospital, where he receives an unexpected visit from his friend Jill, played by Nanette Newman. Despite her shock at seeing him so helpless, Jill is determined to help Bruce overcome his sense of hopelessness and self-pity. Soon, she manages to convince him to leave the hospital and move to a rehabilitation center, where he can learn to live independently and adapt to his new reality.

At the center, Bruce meets Joe, another paralyzed man who is more experienced in dealing with his disability. Joe teaches Bruce the basics of wheelchair sports, and under his guidance, Bruce slowly regains his confidence and sense of purpose. Meanwhile, Jill becomes increasingly involved in Bruce's life and feelings, although she is hesitant to admit her growing affection for him.

As Bruce and Jill's relationship develops, they begin to face numerous challenges, both from their own insecurities and from the outside world. Bruce's parents, for example, struggle to accept their son's new condition and are often unable to communicate with him on an equal level. In the meantime, the staff at the center tries to help Bruce and Jill realize their potential as individuals and as a couple, but they soon discover that not everyone is ready to embrace the idea of disabled people living full and satisfying lives.

What makes The Raging Moon stand out from other movies of its genre is its poignant portrayal of the protagonists' emotions and struggles. With vivid and powerful performances, both Malcolm McDowell and Nanette Newman manage to convey a deep sense of empathy and authenticity, making the viewer feel fully immersed in their journey.

Moreover, the movie features beautiful cinematography and a stunning, melancholic musical score, which match the theme and tone of the story perfectly. The script, although occasionally a bit heavy-handed, touches on important themes such as disability, identity, and love, without resorting to cheap sentimentality or clichés.

In conclusion, The Raging Moon is a classic film that has stood the test of time and is still relevant today. It is a moving tribute to the resilience and courage of disabled people, and a reminder that love and friendship can conquer even the toughest obstacles. The brilliant performances, sensitive direction, and powerful storytelling make this movie a must-see for anyone interested in human stories and emotions.

The Raging Moon is a 1971 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.