Review of Shine (1996) by David A — 20 Apr 2010
(from The Watermark, 01/23/97).
The story of the great Australian concert pianist David Helfgott and his battle with mental illness. As the psychotically sweet and maniacally babbling Helfgott, Rush's incredible performance is the driving force of the film. Emotionally damaged in his youth by his monstrous father (the wonderfully imposing Mueller-Stahl), young David (Taylor) is disowned when he leaves home to study piano in London. As he tackles a notoriously difficult piano concerto, he has a breakdown, and is institutionalized for many years. His talents are rediscovered years later, and it is realized that he is odd but not crazy. Most importantly, his talents are still unmatched. The story is a sweet tale of personal triumph in the face of adversity, and the film excels in visually conveying the power of music. In addition to Rush, all of the performances are first-rate. The only important thing lacking is an explanation of his disorder. We know how he is, but the film isn't very good at telling us why.
POST-REVIEW 04/21/10: To expound on my last two sentences, one thing that drives me CRAZY in films is when nobody says the most obvious thing that needs to be said... at no point did anybody in Helgott's presence turn to another person and say, "Wow... what's wrong with that guy?".
This review of Shine (1996) was written by David A on 20 Apr 2010.
Shine has generally received very positive reviews.
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