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Awakenings (1990) Reviews

Awakenings (1990)
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Based on a true story as related by neurologist Oliver Sacks, Awakenings stars Robin Williams as the Sacks counterpart, here named Dr. Malcolm Sayer. Something of a klutz and naif, Dr. Sayer takes a job at a Bronx psychiatric hospital in 1969. Here he's put in charge of several seemingly catatonic patients who, under Sayer's painstaking guidance, begin responding to certain stimulati. Apprised of the efficacy of a new drug called L-DOPA in treating degenerative-disease victims, Sayer is given permission to test the drug on one of his patients: Leonard Lowe (Robert De Niro), who has not communicated with anyone since lapsing into catatonia as a child. Gradually, Lowe comes out of his shell, encouraging Sayers to administer L-DOPA to the other patients under his care. Julie Kavner and John Heard also star. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi

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Starring:
Robin Williams, Robert De Niro, (more)
Director(s):
Penny Marshall
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
PG13
Format(s):
DVD  |  Blu-ray  | Digital SD
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Average Ratings

(68 member reviews)  

Member Reviews

Karen D.

After watching a few less-than-satisfactory movies, this one was a breath of fresh air! The story, acting, directing were compelling, thought-provoking, and heart-rending. Excellent portrayals by DeNiro and Williams! This is a memorable movie that will always be among my favorites.

Yes   |   No


Louis M.

at first i thought this movie was going to be bad. I only rented it b\c Williams and De Niro was there. I'm glad i rented this movie. Its a must see movie in my opinion.

Yes   |   No


Kristi O.

Acting that will make you forget you are watching a film. Roller coaster of emotions with this movie. Gutwrenching at times, happiness at times, and a collapse of despair......brilliant film.

Yes   |   No


Artie G.

A masterpiece- absolutely top-notch acting, moving script, touches your heart. Robin Williams can really nail serious roles like this. He's one of the most complete actors of this generation.

Yes   |   No


Peter K.

THis was an exceptional movie. All the acting and directing was brilliant. It gained of course because it is based on a true story and like all of life had a message. The dedication of such as Dr Sayer (Sacks) is an inspiration. Very memorable, highly recommended.

Yes   |   No


Bess H.

Awakenings was just a beautiful story and Robert De Niro is such a believable actor in any role he plays, especially this one. Robin Williams, even though he is usually a funny man, was also so believable in his role as a neurologist with his medicine that helped so many people but only for a while. Too bad it could not take affect forever. A truly inspiring story.

Yes   |   No


Kayleen A.

I thought this was a great movie. Brilliant acting, one of the best movies I've seen this year.

Yes   |   No


RJ E.

This film approaches the human condition with solutions instead of just filing people away!

Yes   |   No


William and Malinda J.

Very very good movie.

Yes   |   No


Patrick B.

fascinating story

Yes   |   No


 
 
 

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Member Reviews
Read all (68)
 
Karen D.

After watching a few less-than-satisfactory movies, this one was a breath of fresh air! The story, acting, directing were compelling, thought-provoking, and heart-rending. Excellent portrayals by DeNiro and Williams! This is a memorable movie that will always be among my favorites.

Yes   |   No

 
Louis M.

at first i thought this movie was going to be bad. I only rented it b\c Williams and De Niro was there. I'm glad i rented this movie. Its a must see movie in my opinion.

Yes   |   No

 
Kristi O.

Acting that will make you forget you are watching a film. Roller coaster of emotions with this movie. Gutwrenching at times, happiness at times, and a collapse of despair......brilliant film.

Yes   |   No

 
Read All 68 Reviews
 

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