ADELAIDE, SA. — The compelling and poignant story of a young man who defies his father’s wishes to pursue his dreams. Shine is a story of rebellion and individuality through the eyes of a pianist whose only form of self-expression is found in the keys of his instrument.
Directed by South Australian Scott Hicks, Shine is a biographical drama based on the life of pianist David Helfgott, who suffered a mental breakdown due to trauma inflicted by his abusive father and spent years in institutions.
Made in Adelaide in 1996 with a stellar cast led by Geoffrey Rush as adult David and Noah Taylor as the young and brilliant Helfgott.
“There are films we see and films we remember. Few leave as lasting an impression as this 1996 biopic, starring 43-year-old Geoffrey Rush in the breakthrough role that won him an Oscar,” The Guardian.
Shine: Persistence of Vision by Scott Hicks is published by Wakefield Press and available in bookshops.
The film has won many awards, including Geoffrey Rush receiving the Academy Award for Best Actor.
- Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
- Time: 6:00 PM (includes a Q&A with director Scott Hicks and a brief recital by pianist Simon Tedeschi AM)
- Venue: The Regal Theatre
- Format: Brand-new 4K digital remaster of the 1996 Oscar-winning biographical drama directed by Scott Hicks.
- Book Launch: Coincides with the release of the book Shine: Persistence of Vision by Scott Hicks, with a related book launch event on Wednesday, October 21 at The Mercury Cinema.
