“What Dreams May Come”
In one of discussions on BlogCatalog yesterday, someone posed the question about what films they had seen more than any other. I posted two films, then thought more about it and added “What Dreams May Come.” The film stars Robin Williams in a dramatic role. There is definitely that fine line between comedy, which Williams does so well, and drama, where he truly shines. He is reminiscent of Chaplin in that regard. Chaplin could make you laugh just by his cane-swinging walk, or bring you to tears in his silent sadness.
There is a genius within Robin Williams. His stream of consciousness in doing stand-up, particularly in the early years, was surpassed only by Richard Pryor. When Williams is doing a dramatic role, I often wonder what darkness may lie beneath the comedic man he has so often presented to us. To be truly comedic, one may need to have gone into the darkness and found the box labeled “humor” as a coping mechanism. Whatever it was, I can only say that in the film, “What Dreams May Come,” Williams brought a gentle man to the screen who gave us a glimpse of what heaven may be like and a love so deep that it clutches your heart.
No, I would not call this a “chick flick.” Anyone with a heart would enjoy this film. So put it on your list of rentals and see what dreams may come to you.
—cher
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Greetings Cher,
Thank you for this posting and the accompanying video from ‘What Dreams May Come’.
It could be said that comedy and sadness are intertwined. Sometimes we have to experience the dark to discover the light. Indeed, Mr. Williams may have had to go through dark times to ignite the comic genius within. I know that my attempts at alleged humour have been a vital coping tool in my own ongoing battle with anxiety and low self esteem.
Thank you, Cher. Much respect, your way, Gary
I have never heard of this movie, but after reading this I just found it on Netflix and added it to my queue. I love Robin Williams, so I don’t know how I missed this one, although it looks like it was released around the same time my second son was born, so I guess I had other things on my mind:)
I agree about Robin Williams being brilliant. Such a naturally funny guy, and maybe it is the way his face is so expressive from all those years of comedic roles, because he is so convincing in dramatic roles. I’m looking forward to seeing this, because despite the thousands of movies that are available we’ve seen very few that really stand out.
Dear Gary,
Your humor is quite good, judging by the writing on your blog. It is a healthy coping mechanism and one you have mastered well.
Sending good thoughts your way…
Hi Tina!
I really think you will like this, and I’m so glad you ordered it. Please let me know your thoughts, okay?
I love Robin Williams for all the reasons you mention. He is what comics like Jim Carrey and Adam Sandler aspire to. His ability to do comedy and drama is very rare. I remember him in “Good Will Hunting” as the therapist. Those scenes with him and Matt Damon were very powerful and moving.
I’ll check this movie out. I’ve never heard of it. Thanks!
Hello Cher,
Thank you for pointing out this overlooked film, Watch it the first time to see the plot unfold but watch it again to enjoy the visual treats and connect the dots…for some of us; it does strike a hidden cord and make you think.
Do not dare to call it a Chick Flick, you might need tissues though!
One of The Guys,
If you liked “Good Will Hunting,” you will enjoy this. Robin Williams’ talent is very dynamic, isn’t it?
Topmaker, my sensei of blogging!
It is so good to hear from you. You are right; the visuals are beautiful and the many messages can strike chords in all of us on some level. It is not a gender-defined film, to be sure, but it is a “sleeper” which should have had a much larger audience.
Not familiar with this one Cher, will check it out. I loved “The Fischer King”. I do wonder if along the lines of Rich’s new normal, above, if mental illness and the zaney as presented in the Fischer King will become more of an accepted norm as people with less money turn to neighbors and local happenings for cheap entertainment and as a means for their own pressure relief. Finding the humor in previously thought of as weird situations and sinerios may save the sanity of many a newly poor soul.
KAK,
Actually, I found “The Fisher King” to be more cerebral and redemptive, rather than zany. Mercedes Ruehl won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role, and Robin Williams was nominated for Best Actor—both well-deserved.