Belinda (Rosanna Arquette), who does not speak or listen, is shunned by everyone in her community, including her own family. Bill (Richard Thomas), a social worker on a year-long visit, becomes fascinated with Belinda and makes a startling discovery: She's deaf and mute. He begins teaching her sign language, and the two quickly develop a close friendship. When Belinda is attacked one night by a local drunk (Dennis Quaid), Bill's feelings for her become something he can't ignore.
Belinda (Rosanna Arquette), who does not speak or listen, is shunned by everyone in her community, including her own family. Bill (Richard Thomas), a social worker on a year-long visit, becomes fascinated with Belinda and makes a startling discovery: She's deaf and mute. He begins teaching her sign language, and the two quickly develop a close...