Shine
1996 film by Scott Hicks · Released January 21, 1996
Shine is a 1996 Australian biographical psychological drama film directed by Scott Hicks from a screenplay by Jan Sardi, based on the life of David Helfgott, a pianist who suffered a mental breakdown and spent years in institutions. The film stars Geoffrey Rush and Noah Taylor as the adult and adolescent Helfgott, respectively, while Armin Mueller-Stahl, Lynn Redgrave, and John Gielgud appear in supporting roles. Shine had its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 21, 1996, followed by a theatrical release in Australia on August 15. At the 69th Academy Awards, the film was nominated for seven awards including Best Picture, with Rush winning Best Actor.
Cast ages at release (January 21, 1996)
- Geoffrey Rush, as David Helfgott: 44
- Noah Taylor, as teenage David Helfgott: 26
- Armin Mueller-Stahl, as Peter Helfgott: 65
- John Gielgud, as Cecil Parkes: 91
- Lynn Redgrave, as Gillian: 52
- Chris Haywood, as Sam: 47
- Googie Withers, as Katharine Susannah Prichard: 78
- Sonia Todd, as Sylvia: 37
- Marc Warren, as Ray: 28
- Ella Scott Lynch, as Jessica: 13
- Nicholas Bell, as Ben Rosen: 37