“At First Sight” is a 1999 romantic drama film directed by Irwin Winkler. The movie stars Val Kilmer as Virgil Adamson, a blind massage therapist, and Mira Sorvino as Amy Benic, a successful architect. The story is based on a true account by Dr. Oliver Sacks, chronicling the experiences of a man who regained his sight after being blind since childhood.
The film begins with Virgil living a contented life in a small town, where he provides massage therapy to clients and lives with his sister Jennie (played by Kelly McGillis). Everything changes when Amy, a woman from New York City, comes to town seeking Virgil’s expertise in massage therapy for her strained back.
Amy and Virgil quickly develop a connection, and their relationship evolves into a romance. Despite their differences and the challenges they face, they fall deeply in love. However, their relationship is tested when Virgil decides to undergo a risky surgery to restore his sight.
After the surgery, Virgil struggles to adjust to his newfound vision, which comes with unexpected complications. He experiences difficulties in interpreting visual stimuli and faces emotional turmoil as he grapples with the changes in his life.
Meanwhile, Amy supports Virgil through his journey, but their relationship becomes strained as Virgil’s focus shifts towards adapting to his new sight. Amy begins to feel neglected and unsure of where she fits into Virgil’s life now that he can see.
As Virgil undergoes rehabilitation to learn how to interpret visual information, he faces setbacks and moments of frustration. He also reconnects with his estranged father, played by Nathan Lane, adding another layer of complexity to his emotional journey.
In the end, Virgil comes to terms with his new reality and learns to appreciate the beauty of the world through his senses, both tactile and visual. He reaffirms his love for Amy and the importance of their relationship, ultimately choosing to pursue a future together despite the challenges they may face.
“At First Sight” explores themes of love, identity, and the transformative power of human connection. It highlights the complexities of relationships and the resilience of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.