College friends Karen Wright (Merle Oberon) and Martha Dobie (Miriam Hopkins) were equal partners in their New England girls' school...but Karen prevailed in their rivalry for the attentions of local doctor Joe Cardin (Joel McCrea). When a vengeful student (Bonita Granville) starts spreading fabricated rumors of an affair between Martha and Joe, reputations and careers stand to fall into ruin. Lillian Hellman deftly adapted her play "The Children's Hour" for the screen; William Wyler directs. 93 min. Standard; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital mono.