Awakenings (1990)
A deeply moving medical drama in which one doctor's bold experiment rekindles life — and humanity — in patients long thought lost to silence.
Awakenings - Movie Information
- Original Title: Awakenings
- Release Year: 1990
- Directed by: Penny Marshall
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama
- Age Rating (US): PG-13
- Runtime: 2h 0m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): December 4, 1990 (United Kingdom - 12), January 11, 1991 (United States - PG-13), February 14, 1991 (Germany - 12), February 20, 1991 (France - U), March 14, 1991 (Australia - M), March 22, 1991 (Brazil - 10), March 4, 1991 (Spain), March 30, 1991 (South Korea - All)
- Alternative Titles: L'Éveil (FR), Przebudzenia (PL), ตื่นเถิดเพื่อนถ้าใจยังมีฟัน (TH), Пробуждение (RU), Despertares (ES), Awakenings (US)
- Production Companies: Parkes/Lasker productions
- Production Countries: United States of America
Awakenings - Plot
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.
Awakenings - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the remarkable story unfold:
There is no such thing as a simple miracle.
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Awakenings - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Penny Marshall
Main Cast
- Robert De Niro
- Robin Williams
- John Heard
- Julie Kavner
- Penelope Ann Miller
- Ruth Nelson
- Max von Sydow
- Anne Meara
- Dexter Gordon
- George Martin
Writers
- Steven Zaillian
Producers
- Walter F. Parkes
- Lawrence Lasker
Awakenings - FAQs
Is Awakenings based on a true story?
Yes, Awakenings is based on a true story. The film adapts neurologist Oliver Sacks's 1973 memoir of the same name, recounting his real-life experiences at Beth Abraham Hospital in the Bronx, where he treated post-encephalitic patients with the drug L-DOPA in 1969.
Where can you stream or watch Awakenings?
Awakenings is available to stream free with ads on Tubi TV. It can also be rented or purchased digitally on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Check JustWatch for the most current availability in your region.
Who are the main actors in Awakenings?
Awakenings stars Robin Williams as the introverted Dr. Malcolm Sayer and Robert De Niro as Leonard Lowe, the first patient to receive the experimental treatment. The supporting cast includes John Heard, Julie Kavner, Penelope Ann Miller, Ruth Nelson, and Max von Sydow.
What is Awakenings about?
Awakenings follows Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a reserved research physician who administers an experimental drug to patients left catatonic by a rare neurological disease. When Leonard Lowe awakens, his joy and wonder transform both men, illuminating the profound value of human connection and the fragility of life.
Did Awakenings win any major awards?
Awakenings received three Academy Award nominations: Best Picture, Best Actor (Robert De Niro), and Best Adapted Screenplay (Steven Zaillian). Robin Williams earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Drama. The film was widely praised for its performances and emotional depth.
What is the age rating for Awakenings?
Awakenings is rated PG-13 in the United States, meaning parental guidance is strongly suggested for viewers under 13. The rating reflects the film's emotionally intense themes surrounding illness, medical experimentation, and loss, though it contains no graphic violence or explicit content.
How long is Awakenings?
Awakenings has a runtime of 2 hours (120 minutes). Directed by Penny Marshall, the film maintains a measured, emotionally resonant pace throughout, allowing the performances of Robin Williams and Robert De Niro to fully develop the story's deeply human themes.
How was Awakenings received by critics?
Awakenings was warmly received by critics and audiences alike. It holds strong approval ratings on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers praising the performances of Robin Williams and Robert De Niro as career highlights. Critics highlighted the film's emotional honesty, restraint, and its compassionate portrayal of neurological illness.
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