Some of the most important pianists have their share of idiosyncrasies. Glenn Gould, the great Bach interpreter, hummed along as he played the Goldberg Variations. Keith Jarrett had some odd quirks as well, from his posture to verbal injuries directed at coughing listeners. Jarrett flanked his playing with hums and grunts. David Helfgott is a special case and the documentary works as a wonderful tribute. The Australian pianist, who sings and talks while playing, was considered a child prodigy (see also: Scott Hicks’ SHINE) and spent years in a clinic after a nervous breakdown where he was treated for schizophrenia and depression. David manages to get back on stage after many years with the help of his wife. Director Cosima Lange accompanies Helfgott on his concert tour in Europe and it’s a pleasure to be a witness to it. David is always in search of physical contact, whether it’s after a performance in the concert hall or in the middle of the street. Complete strangers are embraced as warmly as his loved ones are. Helfgott’s nature is touching as well as engaging; a comparison to a small child comes to mind yet that would not do the virtuoso justice. It’s hard to know if you can laugh at certain moments; like when David steals an airport employee’s green tea or when he drinks half-and-half straight out of the pot. The fact that David’s special behavior has a serious background is not hidden. Nevertheless, you can’t help but feel enlivened by Helfgott’s genuine humanity at the end of the film.

Matthias von Viereck

Translation: Elinor Lewy