Quick Reviews: World's Greatest Dad

Before I begin, let me say this: this is NOT an attempt to exploit the death of a great Man/Actor.  This is me looking back at the most recent work of his that I own and a damn underrated film.

In 2009, Robin Williams took on a dark, satirical role in this film by Bobcat Goldthwait, a man who's Directorial body of work is certainly interesting.  I love 2011's God Bless America and this is what came before it...

Robin's character Lance is a man with big dreams of becoming a successful Author.  Unfortunately...

Reality has not worked out that way.  He's a Poetry Teacher at a Public School and his son...

...well, his son is an asshole.  There's no beating around the bush here- it's just the truth.

Tragedy strikes his home as his son dies an embarrassing death.  Robin tries to cover up the circumstances, but takes it one step further...

...by writing his son's suicide note.  Will this finally get him the attention/fame he's wanted?

More importantly, can he live with the cost if he gets everything he wants in this way?  Given how great things are (save for his son's death), it is a tough question to answer.

To find out, watch the movie.  The End.

This is funny, but dark stuff.  The film has more heart than you might expect, but also doesn't pull any punches.  The bad side of human nature is not sugar-coated here.  Good people can do bad things, even if they think it is for a good reason.  Is it wrong to trick people if you help them at the same time?  Are words not poignant if they are coming from a place of falsehood?  Can a false idol still inspire people all the same?  This film is dark and twisted, but also raises some interesting questions.  I will admit that the film cuts a little too 'close to home' right now, but World's Greatest Dad is a great way to look at Mr. Williams' Career.  He did some goofy stuff, some serious stuff and then some really neat stuff like this.  His Career was so versatile that you can love for his Dramas like Good Will Hunting, his darker stuff like One Hour Photo, his broad comedies like Mrs. Doubtfire or stuff like this.  Men are not perfect creatures, but can do great things when given the chance to step up.  This is an example of this.  Am I overselling this?  Maybe- maybe not.  To err is human, but to decide for yourself is also human.  In moments like this, it is important to remember the good with the bad.  This shot exemplifies that in my own kind of crazy way...

Seriously, this film is VERY under-appreciated.  If you like twisted (but deep) stuff, check it out.

We'll miss you, Robin.  R.I.P.