‘Masterpiece’ thriller starring Hollywood legend arrives on Netflix | Films | Entertainment

A “masterpiece” film starring Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman is streaming in the UK. Rain Man (1988) focuses on the story of self-absorbed young businessman Charlie Babbitt (Cruise), who is told that his estranged father has died and left most of his vast fortune to his other son, Raymond (Hoffman).

Raymond, who is autistic and has savant abilities, has been looked after in an institution for most of his adult life. Charlie, who is furious at the perceived snub, heads back to his home, set on getting his share of the inheritance out of Raymond.

The film, which was directed by Barry Levinson and written by Barry Morrow and Ronald Bass, was loosely inspired by the real-life “megasavant” Kim Peek, who gained national fame for his extraordinary memory.

The film was critically acclaimed and won four Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay, with Hoffman picking up the Best Actor gong.

One fan on IMDb writing back in 2005 called the film a “Barry Levinson masterpiece!”, describing it as “the most touching and hilariously funny film ever to come in theatres”.

Another called it a “great movie with great music, visuals, story and acting, one of the best ever”.

A third wrote: “There are so many unique scenarios and circumstances that keep the audience intrigued. The acting is perfect by everyone, and Dustin Hoffman delivers and an all-time great performance.

“The soundtrack for this is also very underrated. The conversations and topics covered are fascinating and well delivered. This is an all time great American film that is timeless and strongly recommended. This is an easy film to score a 10/10.”

Chris Bennion, a critic for The Times previously said that the film’s portrayal of the neurodevelopmental condition is now “seen as somewhat crude” but added there is “no denying the power of the story and of Dustin Hoffman’s Oscar-winning performance as Raymond Babbitt”.

Others have praised the film for bringing autism into mainstream awareness.

The film has a 15 certificate and contains strong language, so viewer discretion is advised.

Rain Man returned to Netflix in the UK on New Year’s Day, having last been available in 2019.