Awakenings
Seen it?1990 | 120 min | Drama
Saturday SpecialWhy it’s a Saturday Special
People are still talking about it, it earned strong reviews (81% on Rotten Tomatoes) and audiences rate it highly (7.8 out of 10). A strong pick for the weekend.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for anyone who loves a strong drama.
- The mood
- Thoughtful and character-driven.
- The pace
- Takes its time with its characters, at 2 hr.
- What might put you off
- Nothing much: an easy pick for most people.
Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a shy research physician, uses an experimental drug to "awaken" the catatonic victims of a rare disease. Leonard is the first patient to receive the controversial treatment. His awakening, filled with awe and enthusiasm, proves a rebirth for Sayer too, as the exuberant patient reveals life's simple but unutterably sweet pleasures to the introverted doctor.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsStrong
81% on Rotten Tomatoes
- AudiencesStrong
7.8 out of 10
- AwardsStrong
Nominated for 3 Oscars, 1 Golden Globe and 1 WGA Award.
- Box office & staying powerSolid
$52 million worldwide on a $31 million budget; still draws a steady audience long after release
- Buzz & cultural impactVery strong
About 528K people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
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Cast & crew
Directed by Penny Marshall
- Robert De NiroLeonard Lowe
- Robin WilliamsMalcolm Sayer
- John HeardDr. Kaufman
- Julie KavnerEleanor Costello
- Penelope Ann MillerPaula
- Ruth NelsonMrs. Lowe
- Max von SydowPeter Ingham
- Anne MearaMiriam
- Dexter GordonRolando
- George MartinFrank