SnoReptilePlenty Memorable, crazy movie

ChicDragon It's a mild crowd pleaser for people who are exhausted by blockbusters.

Stephan Hammond It is an exhilarating, distressing, funny and profound film, with one of the more memorable film scores in years,

Leoni Haney Yes, absolutely, there is fun to be had, as well as many, many things to go boom, all amid an atmospheric urban jungle.

frankcavanaugh-71776 So much about this film is lush and entertaining. Hicks brings together an amazing cast for a touching story about a talented man tormented by a conflicted father and a disorder that is both debilitating and freeing at the same time. Beautifully photographed. Funny, touching and charming. The story is filled with great life lessons about understanding and tolerance. Triumph and tragedy. Captivating work.

WubsTheFadger Short and Simple Review by WubsTheFadgerThe story is told masterfully and fluidly. The amount of stunning moments is astounding along with the powerful and heartfelt ending. The story is powerful and moving in a very inspired way. The "Fall or Break Down" sequence is astounding. Geoffrey Rush, Noah Taylor, and Armin Mueller Stahl all do outstanding jobs. Stahl portrays his character perfectly. Geoffrey Rush plays the part of a mentally broken down man in search for reassurance. Rush performs perfectly.The pacing in the beginning is a little slow but it is intended to build up the characters. The runtime is also a little bit long.Pros: Touching and powerful story, great ending, amazing acting, the break down sequence, and Geoffrey Rush's performanceCons: Some slow pacing and an overlong runtimeOverall Rating: 8.5

mikefrig Rush plays the man, and does a brilliant job. Yesterday (August 2013) I saw David in person, playing the piano in a performance in Cairns. To see him in real life, and playing as brilliantly as he does, makes one realise how close the film is to his actual life. If you don't get the opportunity to see David in real life, second best is to watch this film. Of course, there is some editorial licence in the film, and it is nigh on impossible to get into a person's head and way of thinking, but the flavour is there in the film. This film has not only entertainment value, but is a pseudo documentary about the life of a still-brilliant performer. When I saw David play live, I wondered how he could remember all the music without using any sheet music, and it was obvious by his mannerisms that he is still mentally affected - nevertheless, I believe he is one of the world's best pianists.

billcr12 Shine is the real life story of David Helfgott, a gifted pianist suffering from some severe mental problems. Three different actors portray the tortured soul at three stages of his life, concluded by Geoffrey Rush's stream of consciousness and Oscar winning performance, which makes the film well worth the occasionally bumpy ride. A strict and domineering father physically beats and mentally abuses young David; all while telling him what a lucky boy he is to have a good family. After his dad forbids his travel to America, David later works up the courage to move to England to study music on scholarship. After a difficult concert, he has a nervous breakdown which leads to a stay at a mental hospital where he receives shock treatment. He recovers to some extent when he meets a woman who initially treats him as a patient and eventually marries him. The cast is outstanding, starting with Rush and with great support by Lynn Redgrave and John Gielgud. The music is also excellent.