Friday, April 29, 2011

Classic: Rain Man (1988)


Whats it about
After the death of his father, Charlie Babbitt comes to know that he will be inheriting only an old car and some rose bushes. The remaining 3 million $ is going to a beneficiary at a trust in Wallbrook, Cincinnati. Charlie goes there and finds out that this beneficiary is none other than his autistic brother Raymond. Charlie is a totally money minded person and is least bothered about human emotions. He is very irritated by the sight of Ray
            Charlie takes Ray away with the motive of getting at least his half of the share. When Charlie is about to take Ray on a flight back to L.A, Ray gets perturbed by the sight of flights and throws a scene. So, the 2 brothers have to now reach L.A by road. What follows is how beautifully the bond develops between the 2 brothers.
           Ray has a terrific memory power, is astounding with numbers, has to always see his favorite TV programs on TV and is even obsessed with the 'KMart' under-wears that he uses. He funnily intrudes his brother and his girl friend’s love making at an inopportune time. 
          Charlie loses heavily in his car business due to this road trip and he uses his brother’s astounding memory power to win a lot of riches at a Vegas Casino.Charlie teaches Ray how to dance and Ray also has his first date and kiss with Charlie's girl friend Susanna. 
          Charlie comes to know of his brother’s sad past when he actually realizes that his brother Raymond is his imaginary ‘Rainman’ (both the words pronounced in a similar way). The photo of the 2 brothers really leaves a big impact.
        Charlie now no longer is after the money and has really made a connect with his brother over the course of 1 week and is Ray's 'Mainman' now. He fights for Ray's custody with his equally concerned doctor and finally gives up Ray to the very same hospital, considering his well being and health. The 2 brothers part in the end with the promise of meeting up regularly. 
A BIG LUMP IN OUR THROAT AND TEARS IN OUR EYES

                                                                       
Hits
  • A masterclass from Dustin Hoffman as the autistic Ray. All the superlative words in the dictionary are dedicated to him. Dumbfounded by his performance 
  • Tom Cruise more than holds his own against the genius of Dustin. Initially irritable and later caring, he stands as a true hero in the end. He looks damn trim and handsome. 
  • Hans Zimmer is as usual classy with his soul stirring BGM tracks. Was very surprised to see his name on the credits. 
  • Great photography. All the barren roads and the clear blue sky leave a beautiful impact. 
  • Wonderful brotherly bonding. A very engaging screenplay
VERDICT
A classic. No doubts over this fact. A film about brotherly bonding is a sure shot winner, any day. This one also has superlative performances that can melt even a stone. 

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