Shine is based on the true story of Australian pianist David Helfgott. The story details Helfgott's rise as a child piano prodigy while suffering abuse at the hands of his father, who was traumatized as a WWII concentration camp prisoner. Helfgott leaves Australia to study overseas and suffers a breakdown, after which he is institutionalized in his come country. After being released, Helfgott returns to piano playing and finds fulfillment and inner peace.
The film stars Geoffrey Rush, Armin Mueller-Stahl and Noah Taylor. Lynn Redgrave and John Gielgud also have supportive roles. The original screenplay was written by Jan Sardi and Scott Hicks wrote the storyline.
Award Winner
Geoffrey Rush won the Best Actor Academy Award, BAFTA and Golden Globe Awards for his portrayal of Helfgott. Shine was also for nominated for the Best Actor in a Supporting Role, Best Director, Best Film Editing, Best Music, Original Dramatic Score, Best Picture and Best Writing, Screenplay Written Directly for the Screen Oscars.