Wow, hard to believe this film is 25 years old. It is still just as strange and funny to me now as it was back in '82. Robin Williams is very good as the lead in what surely was one of his first films. John Lthgow is hilarious. I originally watched this film in 1982 with my parents, who had no idea what to expect, which led to a rather Garpian debate after the end of the film.
I read the book when I was 10 and saw the movie shortly thereafter. This was Robin Williams' finest hour. And I can't say enough about John Lithgow's "Roberta"! Truly an exceptional film among films. Great adaption from book to film as well.
For it's time, an amazing movie. Surreal moments now remind me of recent Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Hilarious situations you'd never expect.
Interesting look back at the early feminist movement in th US and how it impacted American society in the way it affected everyone's attitudes about families, sex, violence and power. One emphatic message here is that one doesn't need a father, only a mother's sincere love, to thrive. The movie also switched the traditional stereotypes of mother and father, which was interesting. In the end, the main message seemed to be that forgiveness can heal, and the movie also shows the horror that being unable to forgive can bring. Good acting all around. The violence wasn't all that graphic but still shocking in its unpredictability.
The movie has tons and tons of wonderful quirky gems, but, for pete's sake, did it have to be over 2 hours long? Its length detracts from its focus, making it a meandering and seemingly aimless journey. It's great that they were faithful to the book, but this wa a novel that really wasn't suited to screen adaptation in the first place. All the wonderful performances, fantastic dialogue, and scenic locations can't make up for the sluggish plot.
An incredibly talented cast and crew wasted on a totally boring, pointless piece. After 45 minutes I hit the eject button.