Tea and Sympathy (1956) is based on Robert Anderson's stageplay of the same name. The film was directed by Vincente Minnelli and its screenplay was written by Robert Anderson. The film tells the story of Tom Lee, a 17 year old kid who isn't interested in the things normal men are. He is dubbed a "sister boy" and is treated horribly by his classmates and his father. With the help of the headmaster's wife Laura Reynolds, Tom embarks on a journey to find himself.
Upon release, Tea and Sympathy received positive reviews. On movie review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.com, it has a critics score of 80% and an audience score of 78%. Reviewing the film for Time Out, Geoff Brown wrote the following: "The film's details -- indeed, its very timidity -- still ensure fascinating viewing." On a budget of $1,737,000, the film brought back $3,445,000 at the box office, in the end losing $220,000. Laura Reynolds' quote "Years from now, when you talk about this -- and you will -- be kind" was also nominated for inclusion on the AFI's list of 100 Years... 100 Movie Quotes. John Kerr was nominated for a Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer - Male.
