Review of Rain Man (1988) by William B — 12 Sep 2017

I remember always having a fondness for Rain Man, because the relationship between the brothers is something special and you don't see that much in film nowadays. I've heard it said that Tom Cruise might have actually done the better acting in this movie, and I could buy that. He goes on a serious emotional journey that leads to character growth, but you can feel him making that transition slowly so that it is convincing. Dustin Hoffman becomes Raymond and he did create an extremely memorable character. It might be a bit over-the-top, but I don't know how someone with severe autism would really act to make a comparison.

Rain Man tugs at my heartstrings every time I see it, and usually brings me to tears. The bond between these brothers is so genuine and sweet that it becomes a feel good story despite many moments that aren't all that pleasant. I think there are some flaws in the story, and I could do without the lame car selling that was used as a framework for the film. However, most of the little flaws disappear for me when Raymond first steps onto the screen and we see the clash between him and his cocky younger brother. Rain Man is an excellent film that everyone should check out, if for nothing else watch it for the two amazing acting performances at the center of it all.