'' 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 film made its US premiere at the Sundance Film Festival . In 1997 , Geoffrey Rush was awarded the Academy Award for Best Actor at the 69th Academy Awards for his performance in the lead role
69th Academy Awards
69th Academy Awards
Shine (film)