Shine (1996)

Kernel Score: 84% · 693 TMDB ratings · Rated PG-13

Genres: Drama

Released: 1996-08-15

Runtime: 105 minutes

Where to watch Shine

US availability, updated 2026-11-12.

Overview

Pianist David Helfgott, driven by his father and teachers, has a breakdown. Years later he returns to the piano, to popular if not critical acclaim.

Shine parents' guide: ages 11+

Parents need to know that Shine is a PG-13 biographical drama about a pianist's mental breakdown and recovery.

  • Violence & scariness: A little — No physical violence; depicts emotional distress and a psychological breakdown.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official PG-13 rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Director

Scott Hicks

Cast

  • Geoffrey Rush as David as an adult
  • Noah Taylor as David as an adolescent
  • Armin Mueller-Stahl as Peter
  • Lynn Redgrave as Gillian
  • Googie Withers as Katharine Susannah Prichard
  • Sonia Todd as Sylvia
  • Nicholas Bell as Ben Rosen
  • John Gielgud as Cecil Parkes
  • Justin Braine as Tony
  • Chris Haywood as Sam

Shine FAQ

Is Shine good?

Shine has an 84% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels, our own critic-informed editorial score.

Where can I watch Shine?

In the US you can watch it free with ads on The Roku Channel, Fandango at Home, Plex and Xumo Play and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is Shine OK for kids?

Shine is rated PG-13. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that Shine is a PG-13 biographical drama about a pianist's mental breakdown and recovery.

What movies are like Shine?

If you liked Shine, try TÁR, Dead Poets Society, Pay It Forward and Doubt.