Daniel Day Lewis won an Oscar for his dramatic transformation and unforgettable performance in the true story of Christy Brown, who overcame severe physical limitations and social prejudice to become an accomplished painter and writer. My Left Foot is a resonating, compelling story of hope and inspiration which was nominated for five Oscars, catapulting the Irish Film Industry out of the doldrums of the 1980’s.

The film follows the astounding arc of Brown’s life, starting with his childhood in which his debilitating cerebral palsy causes everyone but his mother to believe he is hopelessly brain-damaged. Director Jim Sheridan brilliantly captures the wicked genius of Brown’s mind as he gradually proves his abilities to everyone around him of his abilities. Day-Lewis’ physical characterization of Brown’s condition, portrayed with remarkably little sentimentality, is absolutely astounding. This is a boisterous, joyous film, often funny, often brawling, sometimes sad, but always affecting.