Awakenings

Today I watched the film adaptation of one of Sacks' first books; 'Awakenings' and I was absolutely transfixed by the story and the almost identical portrayal of Sacks by the late Robin Williams.

The main focus to do with the plot is the trails of Dr.Sayer (based on Sacks) in finding a cure for patients suffering from post-encephalitis lathargica; a form of severe paralysis following the breakout of the disease encephalitis in the 1920's. The patients are completely dependant on primary care, they cannot walk, talk or do a single thing for themselves. 

Along the way Dr. Sayer makes some remarkable discoveries; including the strong reflexes of the patients, and the ways in which they are able to communicate with alternative methods. The most groundbreaking discovery was the connection that Dr. Sayer made with a treatment for parkinsons disease; 'L-dopa' and his trials and tribulations with trying to use it on the encephalitis patients.

Sayer develops a close relationship with a particular patient, Leonard Lowe, whom he tests out the drug on first and foremost. Miraculously he experienced  remarkable period of awakening from his paralysed state, in which he was able to walk and talk again, almost as if he had been resurrected, although sadly the L-dopa did not maintain it's magical effects, and Lowe as well as the other patients began to deteriorate and eventually relapse into their original states.

I found the film extremely interesting and moving simultaneously, and I will start the visual aspect of my research by drawing things that are significant to the film and my interests.