The classroom sequences are well done even if we accept that Hurt's charismatic teaching is not the norm. The students are interesting individuals who show development under his
tutelage. With the exception of one who doesn't respond at all to Hurt's efforts. This 'failure' is reflected in Matlin's character who Hurt tries to change, i.e... make her speak yet they find their common ground in her language (sign) not his. As a teacher he has failed, as a person he is a success. The film touches on much; teenagers, parents, school and still could be much more.

It would be interesting to know more about Matlin's character's upbringing; the reasons for her 'disappearance' are not explained fully. Why weren't we shown other teachers at work, and with younger students? Why was no one shown wearing any form of hearing aid (not all were totally deaf like Matlin)? Some deaf teenagers become self conscious about wearing these devices. When Hurt persuades Matlin to give up work I would have expected his character to suggest she advance herself in some way. Or that Matlin discovered her own desire to study in the confidence of being loved by Hurt.
His character didn't suggest a male chauvinist pig who would
thwart her potential. Hurt is ideal in the role and in some ways so is Matlin. Her sign language is amazingly expressive and it's a pity some of us needed the device of having Hurt put into speech everything she said.

This is a very good film with fine performances which can stand on its own without any positive discrimination. Based on a play by Mark Medoff. 

Jack Jackson writes:

You mentioned that Marlee Matlin "guested" on Reasonable Doubts. That is incorrect. She starred in the TV series for 2 years. Same goes for Picket Fences. Also, there is a film, "It's My Party" in which she starred with Eric Roberts as deaf woman whose brother is dying of AIDS. The role was not originally written as deaf but the producers, upon meeting Matlin, changed it to accommodate her deafness. They also gave the young man dying of AIDS a knowledge of sign so that he could communicate with his sister. Finally, the TV series "The West Wing" starring Rob Lowe and Martin Sheen also has a deaf character in it, played by Matlin. She has been starring on the show for the last 3 years.