The Expression Hub

Starring: Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Valeria Golino, Gerald R Molen, Jack Murdock, Ralph Seymour

Directed By: Barry Levinson

Genre: Drama/Road

“Sometimes it is the people no one can imagine anything of who do the things no one can imagine.”

-Alan Turing

In today’s post, we cover a story of a person who is neurodivergent by nature but also responsible for instilling a sense of brotherhood and pride. The thing with neurodivergent people is that they do have the same needs and wants as that of a neurotypical human but they express their wants and needs in a slightly different manner which at times might be a bit challenging but with patience and time can be understood and be a person whom you can foster a great bond with.

This week’s pick remains a timeless classic that explores autism and family relationships.It is a movie which has garnered critical acclaim and is a four Academy award winner. If you have guessed it, maybe this can be your excuse to travel down the memory lane again and cherish the good moments. So, jump in .

Story line: RainMan is a story that revolves around a self-centered car dealer named Charlie Babbitt. He is in between a financial trouble when he learns about his father’s death. Seeing this as an opportunity, Charlie expects a substantial inheritance in his name. But he gets the shock of his life when he discovers that his father has left him only a classic convertible and some rose bushes while the rest of the proceeds are given to an unknown beneficiary. This leads him on an investigative trail.

His investigation leads him to WallBrook, where he meets Raymond, the older brother he never knew existed. Raymond is autistic by nature who possesses extraordinary mathematical abilities, has routine-based behaviours but faces significant social challenges. Charlie being hellbent on receiving his share of inheritance kidnaps Raymond from the institution.

But what begins as a cross-country road trip to fulfill his selfish motives slowly begins to turn into something meaningful. It transforms into a journey of slowing down and adapting along with a deep admiration and respect and a bond that evolves into a genuine brotherly connection. This journey transforms Charlie as a person as he discovers something more valuable than what he sought for-a genuine relationship with his brother and personal growth beyond his former self-centered existence.

Scrutiny: The movie tries to balance entertainment with a fine development of the character. It also tries to address complex themes with sensitivity. Like for instance, take the evolution of Charlie as a person. Initially, he is shown as a person who is self-centered and has only one priority- that is to get his share of inheritance. But after spending time with his brother, he undergoes a change wherein he starts caring for his brother in a genuine manner. This change is portrayed subtly by Tom Cruise.

Dustin Hoffman as Raynold impresses a lot as he delivers a performance which shows that a lot of research and empathy has been involved in the role. His character is a person who has his own fears, perspectives and choices which may not seem to similar as like other human beings, but gives a different perspective.It also tries to echo the sentiment that his thinking and way of living does not need any fixing even though it might be different.

It tries to raise awareness about autism in a period where awareness was less about this condition. Though a very small percentage of people are affected by from what Raymond is shown to portray, this has given rise to public misunderstanding about the condition. But, the film deserves credit for treating Raymond’s condition with dignity rather than portraying it as something to overcome or cure.

Also, the bond between the two brothers doesn’t develop suddenly but is a gradual development; as each with his own strengths try to develop a bonding. While Charlie’s transformation is more obvious, Raymond also shows subtle growth in his ability to adapt and connect with his brother.

The visual language used by the director also conveys the emotional journey of the brothers beautifully. What begins as a life in a fast paced city slows down to portray Raymond’s deliberate, routine-focused approach to life .

Sentiment: The movie navigates through a difficult emotional journey masterfully without any manipulation or a lot of sentimentality. It showcases a journey from frustration to acceptance, from lack of vulnerability to that of connection. It also has the ability to find moments of unexpected joy amid the challenges. This provides an emotional relief along with deepening our investment in the brothers’ journey. The movie also reminds us that meaningful relationships are often formed through shared moments of simple pleasure rather than grand gestures. It also reminds us of the fact that an acknowledgment of love sometimes means accepting limitations while still maintaining connection. A culturally significant piece of work which played an important role in starting conversations about neurodiversity.It also highlights the fact of how relationships can form across seemingly insurmountable differences. And we need not change ourselves as a person to accept one another but instead just embrace the differences one has in a positive manner.

Cite Bite: “There is a thin line that separates family and strangers. In the end, it’s the bonds we choose to nurture that define us.”

Que: What amount of money does Charlie’ s father leave?

a. 2 billion dollars

b. 3 million dollars

c. 5 million dollars

d. 10 million dollars