Man, I am digging the 1980’s. Maybe it’s the fact that I was born more recently than most critics, but as I get closer and closer to the 21st century, I find myself getting more into a lot of the films. But then again, since these are critically acclaimed movies, it makes sense that so many of them are really, really good. And Rain Man is another one to add to the list.

I think what draws me to the film is it’s depiction of autism. It’s always interesting how movies depict autism and similar syndromes and do it in a way that doesn’t insult anyone. Without delving too much into my personal life, I am very familiar with Asberger’s syndrome, and while I know it’s not exactly the same as autism, I did note many similarities between the two conditions and recognize one or two common traits.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without he brilliant performance by Dustin Hoffman, who is quickly becoming one of my favorite actors. Playing a character like this without feeling forced is no easy task, especially considering that this was during a time where autism was relatively unknown.

And this is all perfectly counterbalanced with Tom Cruise, who proves here that he does possess serious acting chops and should have been nominated right alongside Hoffman. The chemistry between the two of them is executed brilliantly by both the actors and the screenplay.

This Best Picture did something that none of the others did – it made me want to see more. I want to see the Babbitt brothers spend more time together, I want to see their bond grow closer. Overall, I have very few complaints about Rain Man, other than I would have liked to have seen more of it. But maybe that’s a good complaint to have.

*****