Voices 1979

Rosemarie Lemon (Amy Irving) is a young deaf woman and a patient teacher of deaf children who nurtures a bold dream: to become a dancer. Her mother, Mrs. Lemon, does not support this dream, a stance voiced by Viveca Lindfors. The contrast between Rosemarie’s quiet resolve and her mother’s doubt sets the emotional stage for the story.

Drew Rothman (Michael Ontkean) is a truck driver for the family business who longs to become a singer. His ambition is met with ridicule from his brother, Barry Miller as Raymond Rothman, and their father Herbert Berghof as Nathan Rothman. They all live with their grandfather Montrose Meier, Allan Rich, in a crowded Hoboken, New Jersey apartment that frames the family dynamic and the pressures on both siblings as they chase personal dreams.

Drew first spots Rosemarie at a train station, and he follows that initial spark by tracking her down. He learns about her hearing impairment but becomes fascinated by how she navigates life without hearing, a perspective that resonates with his own passion for music. As their paths cross and they begin to see each other, their bond deepens, strengthened by shared ambitions and the mutual need for support.

While the romance grows, both families offer criticism and commentary. Rosemarie’s mother and Drew’s father and brother challenge the couple, yet their relationship gradually opens doors to new understanding. Each learns to see the other’s world more clearly, and the romance becomes a steady source of encouragement as they pursue their respective goals.

In the end, Rosemarie and Drew find the love and confidence they need to follow their dreams, supporting one another as they strive to turn dancing and singing into real, fulfilling paths. The film highlights resilience, communication, and the power of partnership to bridge differences.