"I Am Sam" (2001) is an American drama film that was co-written and directed by Jessie Nelson. It stars Sean Penn, Michelle Pfeiffer, Dianne Wiest, Dakota Fanning, Elle Fanning, Richard Schiff, Loretta Devine and Laura Dern.

Nelson and co-writer Kristine Johnson researched the issues facing adults with intellectual disabilities. They visited the non-profit organization L.A. GOAL (Greater Opportunities for the Advanced Living). They subsequently cast two actors with disabilities, Brad Silverman and Joe Rosenberg, in key roles. The film's title is derived from the lines "I am Sam / Sam I am" of the book "Green Eggs and Ham" by Dr. Seuss, which is included in the movie.

"I Am Sam" tells the compelling story of Sam Dawson (Penn), a mentally-challenged father raising his daughter Lucy (Fanning) with the help of a unique group of friends. As Lucy turns seven and begins to intellectually surpass her father, their close bond is threatened when their unconventional living arrangement comes to the attention of a social worker who wants Lucy placed in foster care.

It's a film that received polarized reviews from critics/audiences. It grossed over $97 million at the box office, against a budget of $22 million. For his role as Sam, Penn was highly acclaimed and was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor in 2002. The film launched the career of Dakota Fanning and her younger sister Elle. Dakota became the youngest person to be nominated for a Screen Actors Guild Award.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org