Shine

1996 Drama

The true story of a gifted Australian piano prodigy, this biographical drama was nominated for seven Oscars, with actor Geoffrey Rush winning for Best Actor. Rush stars as David Helfgott, a pianist with a history of mental problems. As a fragile boy genius at math, chess, and piano, David is driven hard by his overbearing father (Armin Mueller-Stahl), a tyrant who forbids him to accept a scholarship offered by the great violinist Isaac Stern. Although he studies briefly in London under tutor Cecil Parks (John Gielgud), David has a nervous breakdown after performing Rachmaninoff's daunting "Piano Concerto No. 3" (known as the "Rach 3"). Years later, the adult David keeps up a steady patter of nervous stammering at all times and has been reduced to playing in a bar. Through a friend, he meets astrologer Gillian (Lynn Redgrave), and falls in love with her. With Gillian's help, David embarks down the road to regained fame and mastery of the "Rach 3." The international popularity of Shine caused a sensation leading to a musical tour for Helfgott, whose performances were less adroit than many audiences expected, sparking criticism that writer-director Scott Hicks had exaggerated his subject's talent for dramatic purposes. more..

Director: Scott Hicks

Starring: Geoffrey Rush, Armin Mueller-Stahl, Noah Taylor, Lynn Redgrave, John Gielgud

Reviews

  • The fact that David Helfgott lived the outlines of these events--that he triumphed, that he fell, that he came slowly back--adds an enormous weight of meaning to the film.

    Roger Ebert - The Chicago Sun-Times

    27 April 2013

  • Delivers a full emotional palette without undue sentimentalizing.

    Edward Guthmann - The San Francisco Chronicle

    27 April 2013

  • All but sweeps you away with its dazzling technique and shattering emotion.

    Michael Wilmington - The Chicago Tribune

    27 April 2013

  • Shine beams with warmth, sensitivity, and fine taste.

    Lisa Schwarzbaum - Entertainment Weekly

    27 April 2013

  • Shine has a story to reckon with and powerhouse male performances.

    Staff [Not Credited] - USA Today

    27 April 2013

Awards

  • Best Actor in a Leading Role

    Academy Awards (1997)

  • Best Edited Feature Film

    American Cinema Editors (1997)

     
  • Art Fiction: Best Direction

    Art Film Festival (1997)

  • Best Film Score

    Australasian Performing Rights Association (1998)

  • Best Achievement in Cinematography

    Australian Film Institute (1996)