Sunshine

Synopsis

Sunshine is a 1999 historical drama film directed by István Szabó, starring Ralph Fiennes. The story follows three generations of a prosperous Hungarian Jewish family from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. Focusing on the fate of the Sonnenschein family, the narrative depicts their rise to prominence in Budapest, their struggles during World War I and World War II, and the impact of political changes on their lives. With themes of love, betrayal, sacrifice, and the struggle for identity, Sunshine provides a poignant exploration of a family's resilience against the backdrop of a turbulent historical period.

Cast

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  Ralph Fiennes

  Ignatz / Adam / Ivan Sors

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  Rosemary Harris

  Valerie Sors

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  Rachel Weisz

  Greta

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  Jennifer Ehle

  Valerie Sonnenschein

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  Deborah Kara Unger

  Carole Kovacs

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  William Hurt

  Andor Knorr

Reviews

Sunshine has received a mix of reviews from critics. Rotten Tomatoes praised the film's performances, historical accuracy, and emotional depth, giving it a 74% approval rating. IMDb users rated it 7.5 out of 10, appreciating the intricate storytelling and Fiennes' compelling portrayal of multiple characters. Metacritic awarded Sunshine a score of 71 out of 100, citing its ambitious scope, impressive cinematography, and engaging narrative. Critics have lauded the film's ability to capture the complexities of family dynamics amidst sweeping historical events, making it a compelling and thought-provoking viewing experience.