Journalism of Courage
Talented comedian-actor Robin William's death shocked the world with his apparent suicide on Monday, Aug. 11, 2014. The 63 year-old star was found dead in his California home. A preliminary investigation reveals that the cause of death could be a suicide due to asphyxia.
Robin Williams dazzled fans with his on-stage comedy, impressions and hard-hitting performances. Here’s a look at some of his best work onscreen:
Mrs. Doubtfire: Said to be one of the greatest comedies of the 90s, ‘Mrs. Doubtfire' was an absolute laugh-riot. The actor played the role of a man so desperate to see his children after a messy divorce, that he disguises himself as an elderly housekeeper, with stockings, a wig and a floral dresses.
The way Robin Williams portrayed both the characters onscreen was greatly appreciated and the actor received a Golden Globe Award for his role. The film went on to be ranked as the 67th funniest movie of the 20th century by the American Film Institute. Actor Kamal Haasan starred in the Bollywood remake of the film titled 'Chachi 420.'
Jumanji: Who can ever forget the great thrilling adventure that Robin Williams took us on in the fantasy adventure flick, 'Jumanji'. The actor played the role of a man who returns to city life after being trapped in the jungle for 26 years, owing to a game that he must now finish.
Dead Poets Society: Another notable performance by Robin Williams is that of an English teacher John Keating, famous for his unconventional methods in drama film, ‘Dead Poets Society.' Not only was the actor nominated for Best Actor at the Academy Awards, BAFTA Awards and the Golden Globe Awards, but he is also said to be responsible for inspiring a generation of English majors with his speech about the importance of poetry.
Good Will Hunting: The actor was also seen playing a psychiatrist to Will Hunting (Matt Damon) in Gus Van Sant's 'Good Will Hunting', which also starred Ben Affleck. In the film, Williams is seen playing a more serious role where he helps Hunting who is a Mathematical genius, come to terms with his relationships in life. Robin Williams’ performance in the film earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
Good Morning Vietnam: 'Good Morning Vietnam' is another great comedy starring Robin Williams, where the actor played the role of a radio DJ on Armed Forces Radio Service. The actor’s portrayal of real-life military radio personality Adrian Cronauer showed the Vietnam War in a different light. Apparently, most of Robie’s radio broadcasts in the film were improvised. The actor won a Golden Globe Award for his performance.
Aladdin: Though we never get a glimpse of Robin William's face in the animated musical fantasy film, the actor simply owned the character of the ‘genie’ in the film. His portrayal of the big blue friend, granting wishes and singing in his booming voice, made him a favourite among children.
Flubber: Robin Williams also played the absent-minded professor Philip Brainard who develops a a new substance, ‘flying rubber’, later called Flubber. Though the film did not receive positive reviews, the fans loved it and it performed well at the Box office.
Mork & Mindy: After gaining popularity as Mork in 'Happy Days', Robin Williams played the same character in Television series 'Mork & Mindy', which was especially written to accommodate William's improvisations. The character became widely known and went on to feature on posters, coloring books, lunchboxes, and other merchandise.
Night at the Museum: Robin Williams gave us another fantasy adventure with 'Night at the Museum' where he played the role Theodore Roosevelt. The film received mixed reviews but did well. The third film in the series is in post-production.
Robin Williams also appeared in the Broadway revival of ‘Waiitng for Godot’. His performance on stage earned him much acclaim.
"I dread the word 'art," Williams said in 1989 when discussing his craft with the AP. "That's what we used to do every night before we'd go on with "Waiting for Godot." We'd go, 'No art. Art dies tonight.' We'd try to give it a life, instead of making 'Godot' so serious. It's cosmic vaudeville staged by the Marquis de Sade.''
