Critical praise — not public adulation — has eluded piano virtuoso David Helfgott since his life inspired the hit movie 'Shine.' But that's fine by him
"I am indeed blessed," says the man whose troubled life would suggest anything but.
Australian virtuoso pianist David Helfgott's talent was first discovered when he was 5 years old. He quickly became labeled a child prodigy. Then, entering adulthood, he suffered a mental breakdown. After 10 years of psychiatric treatment, he recovered and toured the world. It was all ripe material for a filmmaker.