source: A Child Is Waiting

Trailer—A Child Is Waiting

A Child Is Waiting

A film that deals with a diffiult subject (mental retardation in children) very tastefully without pulling any punches. Burt Lancaster is very good as the director of a hospital for the youngsters. And all the youngsters (I believe played by children who really were mentally "challenged") are incredible. At first you're disturbed by the way they look and act, but you come to realize they have no choice in the way they behave, and they deserve love and respect like everyone else. The direction by John Cassavates is also impressive--I never liked his movies until I saw this one. The one bad thing about the movie is Judy Garland. Now I love her, but she looks terrible (her face is horribly bloated) and gives a one-note performance. As everyone knows now, she was heavily addicted to drugs and alcohol at that time and, sadly, it shows. Still, a powerful, moving film. A real tear-jerking ending also. Don't miss this one--it's very hard to find.

A Child Is Waiting is definitely a breakthrough movie, not only to showcase the unique gift for straight acting of Miss Judy Garland, but also to dramatize the dynamics and ramifications of working with people who are today called 'mentally challenged'. Much has changed since the release of this movie. And while mentally challenged individuals are living more productive lives and being partially, if not fully, assimilated into general society, there is still quite a ways to go in preparing them for a productive life in society. I am grateful that A Child Is Waiting was made, if only to educate the moviegoing public about mental challenges. I think this movie is worthy of a remake.

I saw this movie when I was 11 years old as part of the Million Dollar Movie when Channel 9 in NY would play a movie for an entire week. I was in 6th grade and I had the flu and stayed home all week, and watched this film every one of those days - discovering new emotions every time I watched it. This is truly one of the finest, most honest and beautiful films you are ever likely to see. It's incredibly well written and directed, and the acting is nothing short of perfect. I cannot recommend this film highly enough. John Cassavetes nailed it perfectly. If your local Blockbuster doesn't carry it, INSIST they buy it. GT

This was one of the most moving films I have ever seen. The cast is exceptional, the direction sure-footed and matter of fact, and the screenplay rarely pontificates. The inclusion of real handicapped children adds to the realistic atmosphere. Should be seen by everyone, especially young people. Judy Garland is perfect in one of her last roles.

One of John Cassavetes earlier directed classics, it is one of the very few times we get to see Judy Garland the actress and not Judy Garland the little girl. There is not sweet eye candy in this movie. Everything hits you in this movie! One hard hitting blow after another. Its personal direction, the original story, and some of the best acting from both Judy Garland and Burt Lancaster. A relic of a movie, you don't see too many classic like these. An enjoyment, a true taste of the human soul. It is forever an amazing film for the simple reason in the story's message of hope.

Shortly after making the blockbuster "Judgment at Nuremberg," Judy Garland and Burt Lancaster again teamed in "A Child is Waiting." Ms. Garland, again takes a non-singing role, is captivating as a very sympathetic worker in a home for mentally retarded children. She encounters Lancaster, a child psychologist, whose strict methods are in reality what a child in this situation needs so that he or she can function later in life. Garland takes an immediate interest in Reuben, whose parents left him at the institution and have never visited him. The father is an embittered worker and Gena Rowlands does well as the heartbroken mother. Frustrated with his deficiency and wondering where his parents are, the child acts out. Garland shows sympathy but her feelings run contrary to Lancaster's methods and the two conflict. It is not until the child runs away from the institution that the situations are resolved. A truly wonderful movie which was under rated by critics.