Awakenings

Awakenings is a 1990 fact-based film which tells the story of a doctor who tries to help the comatose victims of a years-ago encephalitis epidemic with a new drug. It stars Robert De Niro, Robin Williams (uncredited), Julie Kavner, Ruth Nelson[?], John Heard[?] and Penelope Ann Miller[?].

The movie was adapted by Steven Zaillian[?] from the book of neurologist Oliver Sacks where he tells about his real-life experiences with similar patients. It was directed by Penny Marshall[?].

It was nominated for Academy Awards for Best Actor in a Leading Role (Robert De Niro), Best Picture and Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium.