Awakenings
(1990)
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Based on the true story of a research physician who uses an experimental drug to 'awaken' the catatonic victims of a rare sleeping sickness. The first patient to receive the drug (De Niro in an astounding performance) is filled with awe and enthusiasm that teaches the introverted doctor to value life's simple pleasures. Academy Award Nominations: 3, including Best Picture, Best Actor--Robert De Niro, Best (Adapted) Screenplay. |
Robert De Niro and Robin Williams star in this powerful dramatisation of neurologist Oliver Sacks's book, based on his real-life success in “awakening” patients who had been trapped in a comatose state for over 30 years after contracting sleeping sickness in the 1920s. Williams shows his versatility by playing the shy scientist, though it was De Niro who got the Oscar nomination. Too upbeat for some tastes, Penny Marshall's film got mixed reviews on its release, but still earned an Oscar nomination for best picture. An absorbing treatment of an intriguing subject.
Halliwell's Film Guide
Over-sentimentalized treatment of a fascinating subject, too insistent on leaving its audience feeling good.