Shine . Weekly Alibi . 12-25-96

Shine

DIRECTED BY: Scott Hicks

REVIEWED: 12-25-96

All the critics are gushing over this Australian import. Based on a true story, it tells the tale of one David Helfgott, a child prodigy in piano who grew up, went nuts and got famous--in that order. The acting is unarguably top notch, but the story feels pretty cliché (even though it's true). Early scenes showing a young David being brutalized by his overbearing father, a failed musician who pushes his talented son too far, look like any one of a hundred other dysfunctional family movies. David's adult life after his mental breakdown, his growing fame and his eventual happy marriage are potentially the most interesting parts of the film, but are given pretty short shrift.

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Shine

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Shine

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The English Patient

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