Review of Awakenings (1990) by Danielle S — 08 Apr 2008

Based on a true-life story, this film is a fictionalized account of neurologist Oliver Sacks experiments with the victims of a rare "sleeping sickness" called encephalitis lethargica. His experimental use of a synthetic drug, L-Dopa (normally administered in the treatment of Parkinsons disease) resulted in the dramatic re-awakening of patients from a decades long state of paralyzed unresponsiveness.

This medical "miracle" came with a heavy price however, as the effects of the drug gradually diminished, and the patients slowly degenerated back into their frozen state. Stephen Zaillian's Oscar nominated screenplay is based on Sack's book of the same name, recounting his experiences at the Bronx hospital where these events took place in 1969.

Robert De Niro delivers one of his greatest performances as Leonard Lowe, the man who is the first to be "awakened" after being imprisoned in a completely paralyzed state since boy-hood. It is hard to believe this is the same man who portrayed the psychotic Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver, or the brutal Jake La Motta in Raging Bull, so completely does he inhabit this character.

He is like a child filled with wonderment and passion for every moment of his regained life. His exuberant embrace of even the simplest of life's pleasures is a lesson to the timid and cautious Dr.

Sayer, who undergoes an awakening of his own as he slowly begins to conquer his shyness. Williams role as the meek Dr. Sayer is heartwarming. Robin Williams touches us with his portrayal of a man with almost painful social awkwardness and naivete, contrasting with the genius of his medicine.

Very engaging and sad film. I recommend this to any fan of drama and/or the actors involved.