At First Sight

Apparently director and co-writer Irwin Winkler was blind to the dramatic possibilities of this fascinating true story about a man who undergoes an operation that allows him to see for the first time since childhood, because a formulaic love story blurs the film's focus. The scenes in which Virgil's (Val Kilmer) bandages are removed and he recoils from the initial rush of light and images ("This isn't right," he panics) are powerful and authentic, as are his struggles to adjust to his newfound sight. But his romance with Amy (Mira Sorvino), a fast-track architect is Hollywood hokum, from their initial meeting (she doesn't realize he's blind) to their contrived breakup and reconciliation. Kelly McGillis has the thankless stock role as Virgil's over-protective sister. Nathan Lane appears in the Robin Williams teddy bear role as an unorthodox therapist who spouts clichés about what it means to see and not see. Based on an article by Oliver Sacks (who also wrote the book which served as the basis for Awakenings), this is an optional purchase. (K. Lee Benson)