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.
Robert De Niro
as Leonard Lowe
Robin Williams
as Malcolm Sayer
John Heard
as Dr. Kaufman
Julie Kavner
as Eleanor Costello
Penelope Ann Miller
as Paula
Ruth Nelson
as Mrs. Lowe
Max von Sydow
as Peter Ingham
Anne Meara
as Miriam
Dexter Gordon
as Rolando
George Martin
as Frank
Alice Drummond
as Lucy Fishman
Richard Libertini
as Sidney
