Flowers For Algernon
Abandoned as a child by his mother, Hasumi Sachiyo, Fujishima Haru is a mentally challenged man that has grown up and worked at the Sakurai Bakery as a baker. Working with him at the bakery is the owner Sakurai Kyoko and Tashiro Miki, a girl who is also mentally challenged and is like a sister to Haru. At night, after the bakery is closed, Haru and Miki attend a night class with other mentally challenged adults. Their teacher at the class is Toya Erina who not only is their teacher but also their friend. One day, Erina is approached by her old friend Kobayashi Rumiko about a candidate in the research she is conducting with professor Tatabe Shinichiro and Tokunaga Atsushi that could possibly increase the intelligence of the mentally challenged. Reluctant at first, Erina changes her mind when she sees the resolve in Haru to become smarter so that his mother will come back for him. With the success of the surgery,
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Plot Summary
This television film adaptation tells the story of Charlie Gordon, a man with an intellectual disability who undergoes an experimental surgery to drastically increase his intelligence. The procedure, tested previously on a mouse named Algernon, proves successful, transforming Charlie into a genius. However, he soon discovers that the effects are temporary, and he must confront the emotional and existential implications of his fleeting brilliance.
Critical Reception
The 2000 television film 'Flowers for Algernon' received generally positive reviews, with particular praise directed towards Matthew Modine's poignant performance as Charlie Gordon. Critics appreciated its sensitive handling of complex themes and its emotional impact, though some noted that it adhered closely to the source material without adding significant new interpretations.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its moving portrayal of a man's intellectual and emotional journey.
- Appreciated for its faithful adaptation of the classic novel.
- Hailed as a touching and thought-provoking television movie.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this television film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
This television film is a remake of the 1968 film 'Charly', which starred Cliff Robertson and won him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
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