Shine
Award-winning biopic on Australian concert pianist David Helfgott who in his 20s, with an international career ahead of him, suffered a mental breakdown and would instead spent years in institutions. Helfgott is played by Geoffrey Rush who took the Oscar, BAFTA and Golden Globe for his performance in 1997.
Controversy stirred after the film became a huge success, and the real Helfgott embarked on musical tours. His playing was said to be less adroit than expected which sparked criticism that director Scott Hicks had exaggerated Helgott's talent for dramatic purposes.
Best Actor for Rush at the Academy, BAFTA and Golden Globe Awards 1997.
1996Rating: PG, Violence103 minsAustralia
BiographyDramaMusicTrue Story & Biography
- Director:
- Scott Hicks ('No Reservations', 'Snow Falling on Cedars')
- Writer:
- Scott HicksJan Sardi
- Cast:
- Geoffrey RushSonia ToddChris HaywoodJustin BraineArmin Mueller-StahlNicholas BellNoah TaylorLynn Redgrave
Shine / Reviews
Entertainment Weekly
Shine beams with warmth, sensitivity, and fine taste, but some of that illumination is the work of our own reflector lamps.
Full review
Variety
Top-notch performances, including luminous contributions from Lynn Redgrave and John Gielgud and a powerful turn by Armin Mueller-Stahl, plus a strong, emotional narrative drive...
Full review
The New York Times
Films hitting that note of uplift rarely play it as powerfully or, finally, as tenderly as Shine.
Full review
Empire Magazine
Faultless performances from all the cast help deliver a film of humour and warmth.
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