Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Awakenings

film

Awakenings

1990

Dr. Malcolm Sayer, a shy research physician, uses an experimental drug to "awaken" the catatonic victims of a rare disease. Leonard is the first patient to receive the controversial treatment. His awakening, filled with awe and enthusiasm, proves a rebirth for Sayer too, as the exuberant patient reveals life's simple but unutterably sweet pleasures to the introverted doctor.

Ages 13+Source checked

Why this age? The film involves prolonged illness, catatonia, medical experimentation, involuntary movements, emotional deterioration, autonomy conflicts, and bittersweet loss. Romance is restrained and sexual content is minimal or absent. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age13+

Strongest cautions

  • Alcohol or drugs3/5
  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Romance2/5

Strongest positives

  • Kindness & empathy5/5
  • Positive messages5/5
  • Courage & resilience4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

The film focuses on illness and loss of quality of life rather than death itself.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild, occasional language consistent with a PG-13 rating.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

The supplied plot does not indicate religious practice or religious ideas as a meaningful theme; the Ouija board is not presented as faith instruction.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Leonard develops feelings for Paula and they share a tender dance; Sayer also tentatively asks a nurse for coffee.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

Some scenes may be upsetting because of catatonia, involuntary spasms, and patients losing their regained abilities, but there are no horror threats or jump scares.

Alcohol or drugs3/5
Why this rating?

Experimental L-DOPA medication is central, including its benefits, restrictions, side effects, and eventual loss of effectiveness.

Violence1/5
Why this rating?

Minimal; minor physical struggle during patient agitation and distress.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Patients and doctors face illness, uncertainty, institutional limits, and painful setbacks with persistence and moral resolve.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

It highlights inventive clinical observation, experimentation, communication through a Ouija board, and creative ways of reaching patients.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Diverse range of patients portrayed, though period-specific limitations apply.

Educational value3/5
Why this rating?

The film offers substantial accessible insight into encephalitis lethargica, catatonia, L-DOPA, clinical research, disability, and medical ethics.

Kindness & empathy5/5
Why this rating?

Kindness and dignity toward the vulnerable are central to the story.

Positive messages5/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes of empathy, the value of life, and the importance of human connection.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist is a deeply dedicated, caring, and professional role model.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. Where did a character show kindness or empathy, and what changed because of it?
  2. How were alcohol or drugs portrayed, and what consequences did the story show?
  3. Which choice in Awakenings would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Awakenings, and what caused that change?
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