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.

Robert De Niro
Leonard Lowe

Robin Williams
Malcolm Sayer

John Heard
Dr. Kaufman

Julie Kavner
Eleanor Costello

Penelope Ann Miller
Paula

Ruth Nelson
Mrs. Lowe

Max von Sydow
Peter Ingham

Anne Meara
Miriam
2,718 ratings. The score is reasonably stable but could shift up to 0.06 as more ratings come in.
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Release Date
December 4, 1990
Runtime
2h 0m
Rating
PG-13
Genres
Drama
Director