Shine

Shine

Year: 1996

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

Director: Scott Hicks

BiographyDramaRomanceMusic

A gifted pianist with a promising future, David Helfgott's career and mental health are derailed in his early twenties, leading to years of isolation. Later in life, he discovers comfort and a chance at redemption through a loving relationship, which inspires a remarkable return to the stage. This journey explores the depths of his struggles and ultimately celebrates a triumphant comeback.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Shine (1996)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Shine (1996). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film spans various stages of David Helfgott's life, from his challenging upbringing in the mid-20th century to his pursuit of music in the latter half of the century. This era saw significant changes in the world of music and mental health, reflecting both the struggles David faced and the evolving perception of artistic genius and personal turmoil.

Location

Adelaide, South Australia, London, United States

Adelaide is a vibrant city in South Australia known for its cultural festivals, beautiful parks, and lively food scene. It serves as the backdrop for David's childhood and aspirations. London is a global city famed for its arts and music, where David seeks to establish his career. The United States represents the opportunity and ambition David aims to achieve through his musical talents.

🇦🇺 Australia 🇬🇧 United Kingdom 🇺🇸 USA

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:20

Main Characters – Shine (1996)

Meet the key characters of Shine (1996), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

David Helfgott

David Helfgott is a talented pianist whose life is marked by brilliant but tumultuous experiences. Growing up under the shadow of a strict father, David's passion for music drives him to overcome immense obstacles. His journey is a poignant exploration of a gifted artist striving for acceptance and healing.

🎵 Musician 🌟 Prodigy 😔 Troubled

Peter Helfgott

Peter Helfgott is David's father, characterized by his authoritarian demeanor and obsession with perfection. His intense pressure on David leads to tragic consequences, shaping David's struggles with mental health and familial relationships. His harsh methods create a toxic environment that David desperately seeks to escape.

👨‍👦 Father ⚔️ Oppressor 😠 Abusive

Sylvia

Sylvia is a compassionate waitress who first encounters David during his distress. Her kindness and curiosity allow her to form a brief connection with him, showcasing her empathy and desire to help those in need. Despite the fleeting nature of their relationship, she represents a moment of warmth in David's turbulent life.

💖 Helper 👩‍🍳 Waitress 🌧️ Kindness

Gillian

Gillian is David's love interest and eventual wife, offering him unwavering support and encouragement as he navigates his troubled past. Her love becomes a beacon of hope for David, helping him to confront his fears and reclaim his place in the world of music. She represents stability and healing.

💞 Supporter 👰‍♀️ Wife 🌈 Hope

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:20

Major Themes – Shine (1996)

Explore the central themes of Shine (1996), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎹 Music

Music is at the heart of David Helfgott's life and journey. It embodies his struggles, aspirations, and ultimate redemption as he channels his passion into performance. The film illustrates how music can be both a source of joy and a profound challenge, showcasing its power to heal and connect.

💔 Abuse

The theme of abuse permeates David's life, as he contends with the oppressive expectations of his father. This manipulation manifests not only in physical terms but also psychologically, highlighting the long-lasting effects of parental neglect and the quest for autonomy.

🌱 Healing

The journey of healing is central to the narrative as David confronts his past trauma and mental health issues. Through love and support from others, he fights to reclaim his sense of self and artistic identity, exemplifying resilience and the transformative power of compassion.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:20

Unlock the Full Story of Shine

Don't stop at just watching — explore Shine in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Shine is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Shine Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Shine, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Shine Summary

Shine Timeline

Track the full timeline of Shine with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Shine Timeline

More About Shine

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Shine: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Shine

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