Film enthusiasts across the UK have a compelling reason to revisit a piece of cinematic history, as the acclaimed drama Rain Man is now available to watch completely free of charge. The Oscar-winning classic, featuring a young Tom Cruise in one of his breakthrough roles alongside screen legend Dustin Hoffman, can be streamed on the ad-supported platform Pluto TV.
A Landmark Film Available for Free
The 1988 film, directed by Barry Levinson, has been made freely accessible on Pluto TV, with reports indicating it will remain available until 31 March. For those with a Netflix subscription, the film is also available there. This move offers a new generation of viewers the chance to experience a movie that swept the 61st Academy Awards, securing four Oscars including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor for Dustin Hoffman, and Best Original Screenplay.
The film holds an impressive 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, cementing its status as a critically adored work. The plot follows self-centred car dealer Charlie Babbitt (Cruise), who discovers upon his father's death that he has an autistic older brother, Raymond (Hoffman), and that the family's $3 million fortune is left to Raymond's care institution. What begins as a cross-country trip motivated by money evolves into a profound journey that changes both brothers' lives forever.
Audience and Critical Acclaim
Viewers have long hailed Rain Man as a defining film of its era. Recent comments on streaming platforms echo decades of praise, with fans calling it everything from a cinematic masterpiece to one of the best movies ever made. Many specifically highlight Tom Cruise's performance, with one devotee stating it is possibly Tom Cruise's best role and another declaring it their favourite Tom Cruise film.
The consensus is that the film's power lies in its emotional depth and the phenomenal chemistry between its two leads. Reviews frequently describe it as a poignant, moving, and funny drama that everyone should watch at least once. The layered storytelling and remarkable performances ensure the film's enduring appeal, with many noting they enjoy it just as much on repeated viewings.
The Serendipitous Casting of Tom Cruise
In a charming anecdote shared by Tom Cruise himself during an appearance at BFI Southbank last year, the actor revealed how a chance encounter led to his casting. He recounted being pushed by his younger sister, Cass, to introduce himself to Dustin Hoffman while they were both getting food.
I stood next to him and said, 'Excuse me, Mr Hoffman, I'm sorry...' and he looked at me and said, 'Cruise!' Cruise disclosed. As I was leaving, he said, 'I want to make a movie with you,' and I said, 'That would be nice.' A year later he sent Rain Man to me. This fortuitous meeting ultimately resulted in one of the most iconic pairings in modern film.
For UK audiences looking for top-tier entertainment without the subscription fee, Rain Man represents an unmissable opportunity. Its availability on Pluto TV provides easy access to a story that is as impactful and inspiring today as it was upon its release over three decades ago.
