Based on the true story of Princeton University professor, John Nash. Early in his career, mathematician John Nash showed brilliance, but his thirst for recognition soon twisted into schizophrenia. He finds fruit at the end of the road to recovery in the form of a Nobel Prize.

Probably the best drama of the year, A Beautiful Mind deserves acclaim for several wonderful performances. Crowe or Connelly or both should earn Oscar consideration for their roles.

Ron Howard (on the road to recovery himself from The Grinch), richly develops a fine human drama that focuses on Nash but doesn't discount other characters that are needed to tell the story effectively. He, too may deserve a Oscar nod.

This isn't the sort of story that appeals to everyone. We're talking fairly heavy drama here and there's little violence and swearing to keep lesser minds busy. But A Beautiful Mind doesn't ask too much from its audience either; only to develop an interest in Mr. Nash and that comes rather easily.

Directed by Ron Howard.

Won Academy Awards for: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actress, Best Adapted Screenplay.