Innuendo, unsubstantiated charges, gossip, murmuring and intolerance are all topics at the core of Doubt.  Meryl Streep gives a great performance as Sister Aloysius Beauvier.  If you can envision Sister Arnold Schwarzenegger as the head of a 1964 Bronx Catholic school ruling with an Iron will and unforgiving heart and  you'll get a mental picture of this woman.  Her nemesis and patron of change and compassion is Father Flynn, played by Philip Seymour Hoffman. 

Donal Miller the first black Student of the predominately Irish and Italian mix of students, is befriended by Father Flynn.  Sister Beauvier has reason to suspect that there friendship has lead to some improper behavior.  Although there is no "real" evidence Sister Beauvier starts a campaign to rid the school of this supposed monster. 

As the story unfolds there are several key dialogs and a lot of drama in what the Father in trying to hide and his motives for it.  At the same time there is always doubt........

Acting is great, the story is just as important to the culture of 1964, the time frame it takes place in, as it is today.  Both Hoffman and Streep are at their best, Streep working very hard to be convincing, Hoffman on the other hand is totally believable as Father Flynn.  Amy Adams as Sister James, the sweet and innocent sister.  Finally a short but absolutely stunning performance by Viola Davis as Mrs. Miller, the mother of Donald Miller in a dialog with Sister Beauvier.

Finally I have to comment on the Author, Director and Screenplay writer John Patrick Shanley.  His excellent choice of actors for the movie as well as a tight, compact gripping dialog will most likely land him an academy nomination for Best adapted Screenplay.

Certainly one of the best dramas of the year.  -AL