Released in 1990
10/10
Genre- Drama, Life
Main Cast: Robert De Niro, Robin Williams
Story- Based on the 1973 book of the same name by Oliver Sacks
Screenplay: Steven Zaillian
Direction- Penny Marshall

Robin Williams and Robert De Niro in Awakenings (1990)

BRIEF INTRODUCTION Based on true events, Awakenings is a story of a doctor/researcher (neurologist) and his untiring efforts to reawaken/revive the long-lost patients affected with sleeping sickness, also known as Encephalitis lethargica. The events in the film tell about the continued efforts, successes, and failures of Dr. Sayer (played by Williams) with all the patients with this condition and getting the primary success with one Mr. Leonard Lowe (played by De Niro) from the group.

The Movie An emotional ride, of feelings, of hope, of success, of failure. The straightforward narrative of the movie attracts one to become a part of the film. The presentation of the events is so natural as if I was witnessing them in front of my eyes.

Robert De Niro and Robin Williams in Awakenings (1990)

Performances Two of my favorite actors together, De Niro and Williams.
Robert De Niro After watching a number of films having De Niro as a tough guy, this was a complete surprise. His performance in Awakenings is perhaps one of his best performances. His depiction of Leonard Lowe in the film is an inspiration for young actors, to how far an artist can go. In the second half of the film, he gave a performance worth a standing ovation no wonder he was nominated for the Academy Award (1991) in the Best Actor category.
Robin Williams Robin Williams was perfect for the role of Dr. Sayer, a dedicated researcher, and a doctor (based on Dr. Oliver Sacks-author of the original book). His simplistic portrayal of the doctor added a lot of warmth to the character. It was really interesting to see him in a serious role like this, impressive performance.

Some memorable lines from the film
“The human spirit is more powerful than any medicine, and that is what needs to be nourished, with work, play, friendship, family. These are the things that matter, the simplest things.”

P.S. Awakenings was nominated for three Academy Awards (1991) in the Best Actor, Best Picture, and Best Adapted Screenplay category.