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Awakenings

Awakenings

There is no such thing as a simple miracle.

19907.82h 0m

Overview

Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a shy research physician, uses an experimental drug to "awaken" the catatonic victims of a rare disease. Leonard is the first patient to receive the controversial treatment. His awakening, filled with awe and enthusiasm, proves a rebirth for Sayer too, as the exuberant patient reveals life's simple but unutterably sweet pleasures to the introverted doctor.

Directed by Penny Marshall
Written by Steven Zaillian, Oliver Sacks
Produced by Lawrence Lasker, Walter F. Parkes
Box OfficeBudget: $31.0MRevenue: $52.1M

Top Cast

Robert De Niro

Robert De Niro

Leonard Lowe

Robin Williams

Robin Williams

Malcolm Sayer

John Heard

John Heard

Dr. Kaufman

Julie Kavner

Julie Kavner

Eleanor Costello

Penelope Ann Miller

Penelope Ann Miller

Paula

Ruth Nelson

Ruth Nelson

Mrs. Lowe

Max von Sydow

Max von Sydow

Peter Ingham

Anne Meara

Anne Meara

Miriam

Dexter Gordon

Dexter Gordon

Rolando

George Martin

George Martin

Frank

Themes & Keywords

comaexperimentbased on novel or bookhopemiraclebased on true storyhospitalillnesswoman directorcomatosemedical drama

About Awakenings

Awakenings is a drama film released in 1990 exploring themes of coma, experiment, based on novel or book, hope, miracle, based on true story. Directed by Penny Marshall, it stars Robert De Niro, Robin Williams, John Heard. Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a shy research physician, uses an experimental drug to "awaken" the catatonic victims of a rare disease. Leonard is the first patient to receive the controversial treatment. His awakening, filled with awe and enthusiasm, proves a rebirth for Sayer too, as the exuberant patient reveals life's simple but unutterably sweet pleasures to the introverted doctor.

Movies Similar to Awakenings

Discover titles like Awakenings — ranked by similarity and community votes

We found 15 movies similar to Awakenings

If you enjoyed Awakenings, you'll love these handpicked recommendations. Each title below shares similar themes, tone, and storytelling style. Our algorithm analyzes genres, keywords, director filmography, and cast connections to find the closest matches. Whether you're looking for the same emotional depth, narrative structure, or visual style, these picks are curated to deliver the best viewing experience for fans of Awakenings.

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