The 10 Best Robin Williams Performances
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Written by: Doug Kelker
Few stand-up comedians have made successful transitions to television or film. Notable exceptions include Steve Martin, Billy Crystal, Martin Lawrence, Jim Carrey and Robin Williams. Williams' stand-up routine led to his starring role in TV's "Mork and Mindy." From there, Williams starred in Popeye and became one of the most popular comedic actors in Hollywood. Through the years, he has expanded his range by undertaking dramatic roles. The following is a chronological list of Robin Williams' 10 best performances, ranging from comedic to suspenseful. |
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| 1. |
Good Morning, Vietnam (1987)
Williams was nominated for an Academy Award for his portrayal of non-conformist Army DJ Adrien Cronauer. Williams ad-libbed all of Cronauer's broadcasts in the same stream-of-consciousness fashion that he uses in his stand-up. Most of the film's comedy revolves around Cronauer's antics and the degree to which he pisses off his commanding officers.
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| 2. |
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Doing a career 180, Williams takes on a dramatic role and shines like Peter Boyle's head. He earned another Oscar nomination by playing another non-conformist in a rigid setting. This time, he's a teacher at a private academy, and his impact on the boys' lives pulsates the emotions.
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| 3. |
Awakenings (1990)
People might not recognize Williams in this film; he's sporting a full beard, and his character is introverted. Robert DeNiro's the star of this show, but Williams does a good job with his role as a kindly doctor who reanimates catatonic patients.
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| 4. |
Aladdin (1992)
Williams voice talents helped make this animated film one of the best in Disney's collection. As the genie of the lamp, he brings his hyperactive comic style to a family audience. Memorable scenes include the genie doing impressions of Rodney Dangerfield and Jack Nicholson.
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| 5. |
Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
Robin Williams is the perfect choice for this role, because he brings warmth and humor to the film. Near the end of the movie, he makes a heartwarming speech about his need to be with his children. The judge dismisses it as an amazing performance by a gifted actor; however, the film's audience sees his speech in the same light.
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| 6. |
Nine Months (1995)
Williams reunites with Mrs. Doubtfire director Chris Columbus in this over-the-top comedy. He plays a bumbling Russian OB-GYN who's still getting used to American customs. Most of the humor in Williams' scenes centers around his inept use of the English language.
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| 7. |
Father's Day (1997)
Billy Crystal and Williams star as a serious lawyer and a goofy English teacher, respectively. The interaction between the two comic legends as they search for a former lover's son is often hilarious. Although this movie was quickly forgotten, it utilized Williams' comic talents well.
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| 8. |
Good Will Hunting
Williams won an overdue Oscar for his role in this comedy-drama. As therapist Sean Maguire, Williams matches wits with troubled genius Will Hunting and helps him redirect his talents. His performance is unique in that it taps Williams' comedic and dramatic skills equally. (Click here for a full review of this film.)
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| 9. |
Insomnia
2002 marked a trio of psycho roles for Robin Williams after several box-office duds during the previous few years. In Insomnia he plays mystery author Walter Finch, who kills a young girl and challenges Detective Will Dormer (Al Pacino) to prove it. It might be uncomfortable to see Williams play a villain, but he shows a different type of acting talent. (Click here for a full review of this film.)
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| 10. |
One Hour Photo
Sy Parrish is Williams' most disturbing psycho character. Sy becomes obsessed with a seemingly perfect family and wishes to be a part of it. Everything about Sy is creepy, from his short blond hair to his collection of random pictures. (Click here for a full review of this film.)
Robin Williams fans should also check out Film Frat's Robin Williams Top 10 poster store. Don't forget to check out Film Frat's other actor and director showcases, the Top 10 Eastwood, the Top 10 Deniro, the Top 10 Pacino, the Top 10 Hanks, the Top 10 Nicholson, the Top 10 Streep, the Top 10 Hackman, and the Top 10 Spielberg For buying info on any of the Top 10 Robin Williams films, click on the images above. Did we overlook your favorite Robin Williams flick? Drop us a line and tell us which selections you agreed with, and which classic Williams you think we missed. |
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