Charly (1968)

Abstract

"Cliff Robertson in an unforgettable performance as a mentally handicapped man who becomes a genius. Charly Gordon is a gentle man with the mind of a child. Although his efforts at education are fruitless, his nightschool teacher is moved by his determination. She persuades a famous clinic to accept Charly for experimental neuro-surgery to improve learning. The initial tests show he cannot even keep pace with the aptitude of Algernon, a mouse. however, the operation is a success and Charly's knowledge begins to grow, but his emotional growth is slower and more difficult as he learns to deal with anger, rejection and love. Then, only hours before he is scheduled to appear as triumphant proof of the successful experiment, his emotional maturity is supremely tested when he makes a frightening discovery about the limits of the operation's success." [based on the novel Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keys] [description taken from cassette box]