Rain Man (1988)

Barry Levinson's landmark drama about two brothers, an unexpected inheritance, and a cross-country journey that changes everything.

Rain Man - Movie Information

  • Original Title: Rain Man
  • Release Year: 1988
  • Directed by: Barry Levinson
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Drama
  • Age Rating (US): R
  • Runtime: 2h 14m
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: Italian, English
  • Release Date (Theatrical): December 16, 1988 (United States - R), March 3, 1989 (United Kingdom - 15), March 16, 1989 (Germany - 12), March 15, 1989 (France - TP), June 4, 1990 (India - UA), February 23, 1989 (Australia - M), March 23, 1989 (Brazil), March 10, 1989 (Spain - APTA), May 5, 1989 (South Korea - 18)
  • Alternative Titles: Кишни човек (RS), Rainman (US), Rain man (AR), Человек дождя (RU), 레인맨 (KR)
  • Production Companies: United Artists, Star Partners II, The Guber-Peters Company
  • Production Countries: United States of America

Rain Man - Plot

When car dealer Charlie Babbitt learns that his estranged father has died, he returns home to Cincinnati, where he discovers that he has a savant older brother named Raymond and that his father's $3 million fortune is being left to the mental institution in which Raymond lives. Motivated by his father's money, Charlie checks Raymond out of the facility in order to return with him to Los Angeles. The brothers' cross-country trip ends up changing both their lives.

Rain Man - Trailer

Watch the official trailer and see the unforgettable chemistry between Dustin Hoffman and Tom Cruise:

A journey through understanding and fellowship.

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Rain Man - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • Barry Levinson

Main Cast

  • Dustin Hoffman
  • Tom Cruise
  • Valeria Golino
  • Gerald R. Molen
  • Jack Murdock
  • Michael D. Roberts
  • Ralph Seymour
  • Lucinda Jenney
  • Bonnie Hunt
  • Kim Robillard

Writers

  • Ronald Bass
  • Barry Morrow

Producers

  • Mark Johnson

Rain Man - FAQs

Is Rain Man based on a true story?

Rain Man was inspired by Kim Peek, a real-life savant with an extraordinary memory who became the model for Raymond Babbitt. Screenwriter Barry Morrow met Peek in 1984 and was so moved by him that he developed the character. The film is not a direct biography, but Peek's remarkable abilities shaped the story profoundly.

What is Rain Man about?

Rain Man follows self-centered car dealer Charlie Babbitt, who discovers after his father's death that he has an autistic savant brother, Raymond, and that his father's $3 million estate was left to Raymond's institution. Charlie takes Raymond on a cross-country road trip to Los Angeles, and the journey fundamentally changes both men.

How did Dustin Hoffman prepare for his role as Raymond?

Dustin Hoffman spent years researching the role, visiting institutions, meeting autistic individuals, and spending extensive time with Kim Peek, the real-life savant who inspired Raymond. His meticulous preparation — including developing Raymond's distinctive walk, speech patterns, and behavioral tics — earned him widespread acclaim and the Academy Award for Best Actor.

Did Rain Man win any Academy Awards?

Rain Man won four Academy Awards at the 1989 ceremony: Best Picture, Best Director (Barry Levinson), Best Actor (Dustin Hoffman), and Best Original Screenplay (Ronald Bass and Barry Morrow). It was one of the most decorated films of that year and remains one of the most celebrated dramas in Hollywood history.

Who are the main actors in Rain Man?

Rain Man stars Dustin Hoffman as Raymond Babbitt, the autistic savant, and Tom Cruise as his self-serving younger brother Charlie. Valeria Golino plays Susanna, Charlie's girlfriend. Supporting roles include Gerald R. Molen, Jack Murdock, Michael D. Roberts, Bonnie Hunt, and Lucinda Jenney.

Where can I stream Rain Man?

Rain Man is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, Paramount Plus Essential, and YouTube TV. It can also be watched for free with ads on The Roku Channel, YouTube Free, Tubi TV, and Kanopy. Additionally, it is available to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home.

How long is Rain Man?

Rain Man has a runtime of 2 hours and 14 minutes (134 minutes). Directed by Barry Levinson, the film uses its generous running time to develop the evolving relationship between brothers Charlie and Raymond across their cross-country journey, allowing the emotional arc to unfold at a measured, naturalistic pace.

What is the age rating for Rain Man?

Rain Man is rated R in the United States. The rating reflects some adult language and mature thematic content, though the film contains no significant violence or explicit scenes. It was rated 15 in the United Kingdom, 12 in Germany, and received a TP (all audiences) rating in France.

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