Johnny Belinda

While attempting to set up a communal garden in a poverty stricken rural community, Bill Richmond becomes aware of a mute, disheveled girl named Belinda. Written off as mentally handicapped by the community, including her harsh father, Belinda intrigues Bill. He persists in making contact, discovering that Belinda is in fact deaf. Bill finds that he can communicate with Belinda using sign language, and teaches her to sign.

Directed by Anthony Page, Johnny Belinda leans on a strong ensemble — Richard Thomas, Rosanna Arquette, Dennis Quaid — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1982.