If you enjoy science fiction films, then this one was a treat to watch. It is a fairly simple story about an everyday man who happens to become blessed by an unlikely accident. The film stars John Travolta as George Malley he has a good personality, and seems to get along with the local town folk. After the life changing event on his 37th birthday, his thoughts and mental abilities are increased far beyond what any normal person could ever imagine. A flashing illuminated light changes his sense of reality from what he once knew previously. This is an extraordinary tale about average everyday people, and them experiencing things in a new way. It was directed by Jon Turteltaub, who has also done films such as National Treasure (2004) with Nicolas Cage. The screenplay and story of Phenomenon (1996) was written by Gerald Di Pego.
George Malley is able to absorb massive amounts of information at a rapid pace; he has the ability to move things with his mind if he focuses hard enough. He also conjures up new ideas of technology while trying to help out the community. He even gets Prof. John Ringold played by Jeffrey DeMunn from NASA to stop by his house to test and assess him. There is a love interest for George Malley as Lace Pennamin moves to town played by Kyra Sedgwick (Actor Kevin Bacons Wife). She is also a single mother raising two children. David Gallagher plays her son Al Pennamin and his sister Glory is played by Ashley Buccille.
Forest Whitaker plays Nate Pope and really brought something special to the role as George’s good friend. The amazing Robert Duvall appears in this as Doc Brunder and also is an acquaintance to George. Richard Kiley plays Dr. Wellin, Tony Genaro plays Tito, Sean O’Bryan is Banes, Michael Milhoan is Jimmy, Troy Evans is Roger, Vyto Ruginis is Ted Rhome, Brent Spiner appears as Dr. Bob Niedorf and Bruce A. Young appears as FBI Agent Jack Hatch (as Bruce Young).
This film has a good human spirit behind it, and leaves you reassessing things in your life that are most important to you. I recommend watching this one with your family and friends.
