Rain Man

Cogar_Kelly

Rain Man is a 1988 American drama film directed by Barry Levinson and written by Barry Morrow and Ronald Bass. The film stars Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise, Valeria Golino, and Gerald R. Molen. It tells the story of an abrasive and selfish young wheeler-dealer, Charlie Babbitt (Cruise), who discovers that his estranged brother, Raymond (Hoffman), is an autistic savant and the beneficiary of their father's $3 million estate.

Plot[edit | edit source]

The film begins with Charlie Babbitt, a Los Angeles-based automobile dealer, learning about the death of his estranged father. Charlie travels to Cincinnati, Ohio, to settle the estate and discovers that the $3 million inheritance has been left to an unnamed trustee. He soon learns that the trustee is his older brother, Raymond, who has been institutionalized at the Walbrook Institute due to his autism.

Charlie kidnaps Raymond in an attempt to gain control of the inheritance. As they travel across the country, Charlie learns about Raymond's remarkable abilities, including his photographic memory and ability to perform complex calculations quickly. Throughout their journey, Charlie's initial frustration and selfish motives give way to a deeper understanding and bond with his brother.

Cast[edit | edit source]

Dustin Hoffman as Raymond Babbitt
Tom Cruise as Charlie Babbitt
Valeria Golino as Susanna
Gerald R. Molen as Dr. Bruner

Production[edit | edit source]

The film was produced by Mark Johnson and the screenplay was based on a story by Barry Morrow. The character of Raymond Babbitt was inspired by real-life savant Kim Peek. The film's score was composed by Hans Zimmer.

Reception[edit | edit source]

Rain Man was a critical and commercial success. It won four Academy Awards at the 61st Academy Awards in 1989, including Best Picture, Best Director for Barry Levinson, Best Actor for Dustin Hoffman, and Best Original Screenplay for Morrow and Bass.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Rain Man is credited with bringing public awareness to autism and savant syndrome. The film has been referenced in various media and has had a lasting impact on popular culture.