Lesson 1- Awakening

NOT to be confused with the 2011 horror movie, "Awakening" (1990) showcases how an encephilitis epidemic caused its victims to be catatonic, and subsequently, how an/a aspiring doctor/scientist comes along and finds a drug that could potentially help these patients. However, in the end, the drug only allowed them brief periods of "awakenings".

One of the unique things about this show is that it is based on a true story by Oliver Sacks. While the story-line is engaging and there were very miraculous moments throughout, what struck me the most though, is that this show depicted various different kinds of love, but in a way that I only realized much after watching it.

Firstly, the love of a mother for her child

Above: Mrs. Lowe, mother of Leonard Lowe

Mrs. Lowe was a true depiction of the unwavering love of a mother for her child. For over 30 years, Leonard was in a catatonic state. Mrs. Lowe never gave up on him. Throughout the story we see her keep on keeping on, always by Leonard's side, never giving up on her handicapped child.

Secondly, a friendship love

Above: [Right] Leonard Lowe finds a friend in [Left] Doctor Sayer

Robin Williams is well known for playing the roles of the underdog, the person who is most frowned upon
Even in this movie, as Dr. Sayer, since the beginning of the show, the doctors who were hiring him gave him queer looks and doubted him. When Dr. Sayer found the unique capability of patients to catch objects thrown at them, the doctors also scorned his discovery. Nevertheless, he did not give up on the patients. Instead, he spent time in the hospital going through their case files and tried to help make them better. Even when the patients showed side effect symptoms, he still stuck by them. In my opinion, he exhibited what someone in the helping profession should - genuine care and love for their patients.

And last but not least, of course, the element of romantic love

  

Left: Dr. Sayer and Nurse Eleanor

Right: Leonard Lowe and Paula

An essential part of any show to keep the audience "glued" in anticipation, romantic love. What I liked about these little romantic moments was that it was not (too) cheesy and typical. For example, I believe the contributing factor to the blossomed relationship between Doctor Sayer and Eleanor (all clever planning and scheming aside) was that she (for the sake of the show) genuinely trusted and supported Doctor Sayer when everyone else doubted him.

As for Leonard and Paula, you could see how hard he was trying to be somewhat normal around her, unfortunately when the side effects of the drug kicked in, it was entirely impossible. However, it was wonderful that she showed agape love to him by just being there, even through the times of his suffering.

Another thing I really enjoyed about this show was the bitter-sweet taste it left for the viewers upon its conclusion. I liked that it did not end with the patients all being well and 100% normal. It was an apt depiction of reality. Sometimes we hope for the best but things do not quite turn out the way it is "supposed" to. Sometimes we put so much into something and in the end, outcomes are surprisingly different. Sometimes, we just have to face it and let it take its course. It's life.

For more info: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099077/
Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0sbgJbPgM4