The Miracle Worker

The fact that Helen Keller would be played by that annoying girl in those ubiquitous Pepsi commercials did not give me much hope for this television remake of the classic tale. I'm happy to report that I found myself very pleasantly surprised. Hallie Kate Eisenberg did, in fact, create a Helen with both subtlety and nuance. As well, Alison Elliot's portrayal of Annie Sullivan showed both grace and intelligent restraint. This relatively gentle production never recreates the dense and claustrophobic tragedy of the 1962 movie (starring Patty Duke and Anne Bancroft) and thus the 'awakening' lacks the same glorious contrast. However, it does remain true to the spirit of the story and Helen's amazing triumph will no doubt continue to inspire a whole new generation.