Shine is a 1996 Australian
biographical drama film based on the life of
pianist David Helfgott, who suffered a
mental breakdown and spent years in institutions. It stars
Geoffrey Rush,
Lynn Redgrave,
Armin Mueller-Stahl,
Noah Taylor,
John Gielgud,
Googie Withers, Justin Braine,
Sonia Todd,
Nicholas Bell,
Chris Haywood and Alex Rafalowicz. The screenplay was written by
Jan Sardi, and directed by
Scott Hicks. The degree to which the film's plot reflects the true story of Helfgott's life is disputed. The film made its US premiere at the
Sundance Film Festival. Geoffrey Rush was awarded the
Academy Award for Best Actor in
1997 for his performance in the lead role.