The Children's Hour

The Children's Hour

Year: 1961

Runtime: 108 min

Language: Spanish

Director: William Wyler

DramaRomance

A sorrowful clown arrives in a small town and is unexpectedly tasked with looking after a young boy. As evening falls, the clown shares unsettling stories that captivate his charge, blurring the distinction between childlike fascination and the darker aspects of the adult world, and potentially jeopardizing the town's sense of innocence and decorum.

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Timeline – The Children's Hour (1961)

Trace every key event in The Children's Hour (1961) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Martha and Karen's Initiative

Martha Dobie and her former college roommate Karen Wright decide to open a private boarding school for young girls. This ambitious project symbolizes their dreams and aspirations for education and empowerment.

2

Karen's Engagement

As Karen celebrates her relationship with Dr. Joe Cardin, they acknowledge their two-year anniversary. This milestone leads Karen to finally consider setting a date for their upcoming wedding, showcasing her commitment to their future together.

3

Mary's Jealousy

Mary Tilford, the spoiled granddaughter of Amelia Tilford, grows envious of Martha and Karen. Her jealousy fuels a destructive desire to sabotage their efforts, stirring trouble within the school.

4

The Careless Lie

A careless lie by Mary leads to a heated argument between Martha and her Aunt Lily, which is overheard by her roommate. This moment ignites a scandal, with implications that threaten to ruin their reputations.

5

Rumors Erupt

Lily's accusation that Martha has 'unnatural' feelings toward Karen spreads like wildfire among the school’s parents. The damaging rumor escalates, capturing the attention of Amelia Tilford, who decides to take action.

6

Confronting Amelia

Determined to protect her friend, Karen confronts Amelia about the damaging rumors. However, despite her passionate defense, Amelia dismisses her, leading to further complications in their fight for justice.

7

Mary's Manipulation

Mary coerces Rosalie, a student with a troubled past, to support her false narrative against Martha and Karen. This betrayal adds weight to the already harmful rumors and seals Martha and Karen's fate.

8

Legal Battle Begins

Martha and Karen vow to stand up for themselves by filing a libel and slander lawsuit against Mrs. Tilford. They seek to reclaim their dignity and name amidst a growing storm of disgrace and betrayal.

9

Loss in Court

After months of proceedings, Martha and Karen face an embarrassing defeat in court, leading to the dissolution of their once-thriving school. The ruling shatters their dreams, leaving them isolated and heartbroken.

10

End of Engagement

Joe, rattled by the rumors surrounding Martha, calls off his engagement to Karen. The revelation sends Karen into turmoil as she grapples with the fallout from the allegations damaging both their lives.

11

Heartfelt Confession

In a moment of vulnerability, Martha confesses to Karen that she has loved her for years. This profound admission complicates their already strained relationship but reveals a deeper emotional connection.

12

Unraveling the Lies

As evidence of Rosalie's theft comes to light, the tangled web of lies spun by Mary starts to unravel. Their case is re-evaluated, providing a glimmer of hope for Martha and Karen amid despair.

13

Judgment and Compensation

The judge overturns the previous verdict, leading to a public announcement and compensation for the suffering Martha and Karen endured. This development offers them a semblance of justice and validation.

14

Martha's Tragic Fate

Amidst rebuilding their lives, an alarming discovery leads to the shocking revelation of Martha's lifeless body. The tragedy casts a long shadow over Karen, who is left grappling with profound loss and unanswered questions.

15

The Funeral

At Martha's funeral, Karen stands out in a sea of mourners, wrestling with her emotions. As she slips away unnoticed, a sense of mystery surrounds her departure, leaving others to ponder her true feelings and state of mind.

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 16:18

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The Children's Hour Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Children's Hour, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Children's Hour Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Children's Hour

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Children's Hour

More About The Children's Hour

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