Watch Helen Keller in Her Story

Helen Keller in Her Story is a biographical documentary from 1954 that tells the remarkable story of Helen Keller, an American author, political activist, and lecturer who was deaf and blind since childhood. The film marks the first time that Helen Keller herself appears on screen, alongside her devoted teacher and companion, Polly Thompson.

The movie begins by introducing us to Helen Keller as a young child, where we see her happy life abruptly disrupted by a sudden fever that leaves her both deaf and blind. The audience watches as young Helen thrashes around aimlessly, causing immense distress to her family. However, despite the challenges she faces, she is determined to live a full life. Her parents seek a solution to help Helen, which leads them to hire Anne Sullivan, an experienced instructor who has been blind herself.

Anne Sullivan's arrival marks a turning point in Helen's life, as the two build a deep bond and Sullivan teaches her how to communicate through touch. We see Keller's growth and her mastery of sign language, and we are touched by the patience and love that Anne Sullivan shows in her efforts to help Keller learn and communicate with the world.

The documentary also highlights how Keller's achievements as an author and political activist, while also showcasing her tireless work in promoting the rights of visually impaired people. We see her giving speeches, meeting with important political figures, and even traveling the world to spread awareness and inspire others to never give up hope.

Helen Keller in Her Story features a remarkable performance from Katharine Cornell, who plays the role of Anne Sullivan in the film. Cornell delivers a powerful performance that shows both the tough-love and sensitivity required to educate and support Helen Keller.

Polly Thompson, Keller's lifelong companion, is also featured prominently in the film, and she too gives a moving portrayal of a woman who devotes her life to supporting and caring for Keller. The documentary paints an intimate portrait of the relationship between the two women, showcasing the deep affection and mutual respect that they have for each other.

Despite being released more than 60 years ago, Helen Keller in Her Story remains a touching and inspiring portrait of one of the most remarkable women in human history. It is a reminder of the power and resilience of the human spirit, and a tribute to the tireless efforts of so many people who have dedicated their lives to helping others.

In conclusion, Helen Keller in Her Story is a timeless masterpiece, showcasing the incredible and inspiring journey of one of the most remarkable people in history. It is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in history, human resilience, and the power of love and support.

Helen Keller in Her Story is a 2007 documentary with a runtime of 55 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.5.