Article by Melissa Chapman
 WCPL Cataloging Supervisor

I was saddened to hear of the passing of Robin Williams. The first time I saw him was on a TV show called “Happy Days”. For one episode he played an alien named Mork from Ork. This of course led to a spin off show for Williams called “Mork and Mindy”, which led to him becoming a comedic powerhouse. For someone who started off in stand up comedy he was a prolific and dynamic screen presence who left his mark on a diverse assortment of films. Although his performances were often marked by dynamic physicality, fast-talking wordplay and unique voices, he was also capable of dramatic roles.

As I was searching the Warsaw Community Public Library’s database, I found that we have over 40 films that Robin Williams had a role in. I would like to share with you some of my favorites.

“Good Morning Vietnam” is a film in which Williams puts his irreverent motor mouthed humor to good use. He plays an army DJ who is sent to Saigon, who quickly irritates his staid superiors and wins over rank and file soldiers.

Another one of my favorites is “Aladdin”. In this movie Williams plays a freewheeling, wisecracking Genie. His role as Genie was broad enough to crack up kids but clever enough to give adults something to laugh about. A great movie to watch with the family!

Another great family film is “Mrs. Doubtfire”. Williams plays an out-of-work voice actor and divorced father, who, in order to be closer to his children, takes on the persona of a Scottish nanny, Euphegenia Doubtfire. This movie will make you laugh and cry!

In “Good Will Hunting”, Robin plays opposite Matt Damon. The story is about an MIT janitor who is actually a self taught genius. Williams plays a tough-but-tender therapist who helps Damon open up. This film won Robin his first and only Oscar.

The last movie I would like to add is my favorite, “What Dreams may Come.” The visual effects in the movie are so breathtakingly beautiful and bold that it didn’t surprise me when it won the Oscar for best visual effects. It is perhaps one of Williams best dramatic performances. Be sure to have tissues ready because this film will definitely tug at your heart strings.

Robin Williams will be remembered as a legacy and will be greatly missed.