Nell

(Michael Apted, US 1994, 112 min., 35mm)

Nell (Jodie Foster) has been living in the backwoods of North Carolina her entire life. When her mother’s body is discovered, local doctor Jerry Lovell (Liam Neeson) finds Nell, nearly feral and distrusting of outsiders. Nell’s speech is difficult to understand, but as Jerry spends more time with her, he begins to learn more about her tragic past. When Jerry enlists the help of psychologist Paula Olsen (Natasha Richardson), she argues that Nell must be studied in a laboratory. Speaking on behalf of Nell, Jerry is given three months of observation before a decision must be made about bringing Nell into the larger world. Foster’s fourth Academy Award nomination.