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February 15, 2026
The Education of Jane Cumming review
Berlin film festival Sophie Heldman’s drama about two teachers accused of lesbianism by a pupil is exhilaratingly candid
TL;DR
- The film is based on the 19th-century Scottish libel case that inspired Lillian Hellman's play The Children's Hour.
- It tells the story of Marianne Woods and Jane Pirie, two women running a girls' school in Edinburgh in 1810.
- Their lives are disrupted when a pupil, Jane Cumming, maliciously accuses them of homosexuality.
- The film speculates on the nature of the teachers' relationship, suggesting their attraction became real only after the accusation.
- The narrative touches upon themes of race, class, sexuality, and empire, with the pupil's testimony being viewed with suspicion due to her background.
- The film is praised for its candid and intelligent approach, with strong writing and intimate performances.
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