5 Wonderful Robin Williams Performances To Re-Watch
Robin Williams and Matt Damon in ‘Good Will Hunting’ (Everett)
One year ago today, the world learned of Robin Williams’ heartbreaking death by suicide at age 63. In the wake of the tragedy, we have all gained a deeper appreciation of the actor and comedian’s work, which encompasses a remarkable depth and range that wasn’t always recognized in his lifetime. In honor of Williams’ film career, here are five of his performances that are well worth re-watching — or discovering for the first time.
Related: Robin Williams,1951-2014: His 19 Most Memorable Movie Roles
Good Will Hunting (1997)
Why you should re-watch: This is the role that won Williams his Oscar, and it stands the test of time. His performance as Dr. Sean Maguire, a therapist to rebellious young genius Will (Matt Damon), benefitted from the actor’s famed improvisation skills; for example, he ad-libbed the film’s perfect last line. Yet Williams is remarkably restrained as Maguire, a man carrying a deep reservoir of pain who recognizes its reflection in Will. The character never crosses the line into schmaltz or schtick, and even his Boston accent is impeccable.
Memorable scene: After a disastrous first therapy session, Dr. Maguire meets Will in a park and reminds him that he’s not quite as smart as he thinks he is.
Where to stream: Free with a subscription on Netflix and Amazon Prime, available to rent from Amazon and iTunes
The Fisher King (1991)
Why you should re-watch: Terry Gilliam’s beautiful and unique comedy-drama centers on a suicidal radio shock jock, Jack (Jeff Bridges), whose life changes when he encounters a mentally ill homeless man (Williams) on a quest for the Holy Grail. As the childlike, but tortured Parry, Williams bridges the film’s magical fantasy elements (like the famous Grand Central Station dance sequence) and the gritty cynicism of late-80s New York City. It is a heartbreaking role of mythic proportions, and in Williams’ hands, it is unforgettable.
Memorable scene: Lying naked in the middle of Central Park, Parry tells Jack the legend of the Fisher King, which has inspired him to seek out the Holy Grail.
Where to stream: Available for rent on YouTube, iTunes, Amazon, Vudu, CinemaNow, and Crackle
The Birdcage (1996)
Why you should re-watch: Williams is clearly having the time of his life playing club owner Armand Goldman in Mike Nichols’ feel-good remake of La Cage aux Folles. The comedy tells the story of a gay couple, Armand and drag queen Albert (Nathan Lane), who are forced into elaborate hijinks when their son tells his fiancée’s conservative family that he has a “normal” mom and dad. Williams embraces the role with a vivacious wit and loads of heart. Surprisingly, it’s also one of his best physical-comedy performances, both in Williams’ dancing and his transitions between Armand’s “gay” and “straight” mannerisms.
Memorable scene: Armand schools an uncooperative performer in the history of choreography.
Where to stream: Available for rent on iTunes, Amazon, Vudu and Microsoft
One Hour Photo (2002)
Why you should re-watch: Anyone who wants to remember the sweet, cuddly Robin Williams should probably steer clear of this one. But those who want to see the full extent of his range shouldn’t miss this stylish psychological thriller, about an employee at a superstore photo kiosk (Williams) who becomes obsessed with a family of customers. There’s no trace here of the guy who voiced the genie in Aladdin 10 years earlier. Instead, we see a dull everyman just barely out of step with society, whose behavior becomes gradually more unsettling — and yet, at his most monstrous, he manages to evoke our sympathy. It’s the kind of role that might have been played by John Malkovich or Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Williams proves himself worthy of filling those shoes.
Memorable scene: Sy (Williams) has a frightening dream about the Walmart-type store in which he works. (Warning: disturbing.)
Where to stream:Available for rent on Amazon, iTunes, Flixster, Vudu, CinemaNow, and Microsoft
Related: Watch the Trailer for ‘Boulevard,’ Featuring Robin Williams’s Last Onscreen Role
Popeye (1980)
Why you should re-watch: Williams’ feature film debut was a box office flop, but there’s a lot to enjoy in Robert Altman’s musical comedy. Chief among those things is Williams, who embodies the iconic cartoon character of the title with panache and an irresistible sweetness. It’s a demanding performance, too: He dances, sings, boxes, and fights a giant octopus, all with a corncob pipe clenched between his teeth.
Memorable scene: Popeye resolves to stand up for his family in the Harry Nilsson-penned musical number “I Yam What I Am.”
Where to stream: Available for rent on iTunes, Amazon, Vudu, Flixster, CinemaNow, and Microsoft
Image credit: Everett
