Shine (1996)

Hicks' biopic is a startlingly well-made tale of triumph over adversity that makes for compelling, powerful viewing. The acting is faultless and the story is told with warmth and humour that saves it from self-pity.

Turan describes it as an old-fashioned Hollywood movie that moves audiences without insulting them, thanks to intuitive restraint and strong ensemble acting. He highlights Geoffrey Rush's superb balancing of humanity and eccentricity in the lead role.

Ebert praises the film as a moving true story of pianist David Helfgott's rise, breakdown, and recovery, highlighting the complex father-son dynamic and the healing power of music and love. He notes the strong performances, especially by Geoffrey Rush, Armin Mueller-Stahl, and Lynn Redgrave, and the emotional depth beneath the biopic.

Hicks and screenwriter Jan Sardi add enough originality to Genius Is Agony clichés to avoid insulting the brain, viewing the father with respect and making music the bulwark of Helfgott's sanity as well as his ecstasy. Against the odds, it is a movie to make you feel good about feelgood movies.

Rafferty finds the elliptical, impressionistic style effective in portraying the artist-in-torment as a universal figure, with a happy ending that sets it apart. He praises the way it emphasizes the abstract nature of the creative drive without losing vitality.

Maslin calls the film a powerful, enveloping portrait of a prodigy destroyed by his domineering father yet ultimately redeemed. She singles out Armin Mueller-Stahl's nuanced performance as the anguished father and the graceful direction that gives the story sensitivity and dignity.

The critic finds the film compassionate, deft, unsentimental and inspirational. They single out Geoffrey Rush's minutely observed performance as the adult David Helfgott, along with the powerful use of music.

Stratton calls it mature, intelligent filmmaking with top-notch performances, especially from Lynn Redgrave, John Gielgud, and Armin Mueller-Stahl, plus a strong emotional narrative. He notes the skillful casting across three actors playing the lead at different ages and predicts arthouse appeal.