Awakenings (1990)
Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a shy research physician, uses an experimental drug to "awaken" the catatonic victims of a rare disease. Leonard is the first patient to receive the controversial treatment. His awakening, filled with awe and enthusiasm, proves a rebirth for Sayer too, as the exuberant patient reveals life's simple but unutterably sweet pleasures to the introverted doctor.
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Awakenings, based closely on the nonfiction book of the same name by Oliver Sacks, will move, then open, then break your heart. In playing against type, DeNiro and Williams deliver incredibly layered performances as they explore, without being maudlin or sentimental what it means to be human, to be alive, to be a brain in a body. After I saw this movie for the first time I could barely sleep, it nearly triggered a depressive episode but I've actually gone back to it multiple times and read the source material because it's such a fascinating and important, albeit anguishing, story. Awakenings will stay with you, and I can't recommend it enough.
Probably one of the best movies I have ever seen.I followed the success of Dr. Malcolm Sayer (superb Robin Williams) as if it were my own; I cried with joy and sadness and felt the same frustration as Leonard (brilliant Robert De Niro); and Leonard's mother (splendid Ruth Nelson) was a caring, confused and a warrior defending her child like a true Mother in this type of situation usually is.As we know from the start that it is based on a true story, the whole movie feels genuine to us and the superb performances of all the actors make us believe in everything that is displayed on the screen. We completely forget that they are actors, and when that happens the emotions become real and we feel them in our heart.10 out of 10 for a movie that should be in everyone's must watch list.
With Robert De Nero and the late great Robin Williams the lead stars of this film I knew that I would not be disappointed and that I was not. Throughout the whole film Williams leads the idea of "not having a life", and it takes the awakening of De Nero's character to help him realise this. After the introduction of De Nero and Williams on screen at the same time the real enjoyment comes from this film, their chemistry as characters seemed real which emphasised all emotion intended from this film. Overall, great film and would recommend to anyone.
A doctor discovers a drug to wake up catatonic patients.Starring Robin Williams and Robert De Niro.Written by Oliver Sacks ( Novel) and Steven Zaillian ( Screenplay )Directed by Penny Marshall.This is superb!It ticks all of the boxes as to what a movie should be. To be honest I've had it on my Sky box for a few weeks and never really fancied watching it for some reason. But it really is worthy of as many accolades as it's been given.The story sucks you in right from the beginning and two two main actors are brilliant. I've seen a few De Niro films now and this is the best I've seen him by far. His portrayal of the first catatonic patient to wake up is worthy of an Oscar. I knew he was a great actor but this performance is top drawer. Robin Williams is brilliantly understated and together they are perfect castings.Awakenings is tearjerker and the plot won't have you on the edge of your seat, it will have you reaching for the tissues. It's an incredibly moving film. Well acted, well directed and with a great soundtrack. Brilliant!This could be an early favourite to be my favourite movie watched this year.10/10