Cries from the Heart

Michael wanders away from home, triggering alarm for his mother Karen. Roger, his ex-husband, realizes Michael may need more specialized care than Karen can provide and suggests a residential school.

Therapist Terry Wilson explains how the program could help Michael. Karen reluctantly agrees to enroll him in the residential school.

Michael begins at the school and starts to make gradual progress under Terry. He learns to communicate by pointing to pictures and helps with chores in the cottage shared with caretaker Jeff.

Terry proposes facilitated communication with Michael typing on a computer keyboard while Terry supports his hand. Jeff dismisses the idea, while Eliot agrees to a one month trial.

Michael types gibberish at first, but during a visit by Karen he finally types a clear message. He writes Mom hi and reveals that Dad is gone and that he broke the car window, hinting at a deeper truth.

Karen tells Terry about the night of the divorce and that Michael had thought the divorce was his fault. Karen explains that the car incident was not the reason for the divorce and that she and Roger love Michael.

Karen thanks Terry for challenging assumptions, and Roger expresses guilt for not explaining the reason for his departure. Michael's new communication allows the family to move toward rebuilding trust.

Jeff leaves for a vacation, and Michael begins having nightmares and neglecting his chores. He types out messages indicating Jeff, keeping him away, and a sexual abuse accusation, revealing Jeff's abuse.

Karen demands that Michael be pulled from the school to keep him safe, while Terry argues that the school remains essential for his progress. Michael expresses his desire to stay, saying I STAY.

A detective questions Michael and, convinced by his communication, notes the effectiveness of facilitated communication. Jeff is arrested, and the investigation into the abuse proceeds.

Feeling hurt that Michael trusted Terry more than his mother, Karen withdraws from contact. Terry visits and explains that Michael still needs Karen and that they should work together.

Jeff recants and the court remains skeptical about facilitated communication due to lack of scientific support. Michael is allowed to testify, but cross-examination leads to a recess.

A separate cross-examination is arranged in another area and relayed to the courtroom via closed-circuit TV. The jury eventually finds Jeff guilty of abuse.

The film ends with Karen and Terry watching Michael play on a swing, reflecting that they still have a long road ahead but feel they make a strong team for Michael's future.