I Am Sam
Love is all you need.
Overview
Sam, a neurodivergent man, has a daughter with a homeless woman who abandons them when they leave the hospital, leaving Sam to raise Lucy on his own. But as Lucy grows up, Sam's limitations as a parent start to become a problem and the authorities take her away. Sam convinces high-priced lawyer Rita to take his case pro bono and in turn teaches her the value of love and family.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
Released during a time when the rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities were gaining attention, 'I Am Sam' served as a powerful vehicle for raising awareness about this important issue.
- The compelling performance by Sean Penn as Sam Dawson, a man with an IQ of 75 living with Down syndrome, is both heart-wrenching and inspiring.
- The movie delves into complex themes of parental rights, the justice system, and the challenges faced by individuals with intellectual disabilities.
- The touching plot explores the unconditional love between a father and his daughter, and the fight to protect their bond.
- The movie is a must-watch for its thoughtful exploration of disability representation and advocacy.
Fun Facts
- 'I Am Sam' was inspired by a true story of a man named Daddu DuBois who fought for custody of his daughter.
- In one scene, Sam's lawyer, played by Michelle Pfeiffer, quotes the poem 'The Road Not Taken' by Robert Frost, which adds depth to the character and her motivations.
- Dakota Fanning, who plays Sam's daughter Lucy, was only seven years old during filming.
Available Languages
English
US
Title:
"Love is all you need."
Deutsch
DE
Title: Ich bin Sam
"Alles was du brauchst ist Liebe."
Português
PT
Title: I Am Sam - A Força do Amor
""
Italiano
IT
Title: Mi chiamo Sam
""
Français
FR
Title: Sam, je suis Sam
"Love is all you need…"
Pусский
RU
Title: Я - Сэм
"Тебе нужна была любовь"
Where to Watch
Cast
Crew
Reviews
"I Am Sam" is one of those movies, that touch you right where it matters and if this movie is not becoming an absoute classic, this world must be full of morons. Sean Penn plays the role of his life and he is way more impressive than Dustin Hoffman in "Rain Man". And that performance already can be considered flawless. Also very impressive is little Dakota Fanning in her role as Lucy and one of the best child performances ever brought to screen. And even after the movie is over it will stay with you for a long time and will get you thinking on what side you would actually be if this case would be happening around you. Would you ignore all logic and just decide by your heart or does the common sense weigh strong enough to side with the court and child services pointing out that little Lucy needs a secure surrounding with capable parents who can provide security and mature advice? Anyhow, this movie is incredible and I wouldn't change a single thing.
Oscar Awards
Wins
Haven't Won A Oscar
Nominations
ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE - 2001
Sean Penn