Beloved American actor Robin Williams certainly was. This is evident from the copious reactions following his unexpected death. Extra tragic that it is believed to be suicide, having struggled with depression and drink and drug problems. But it is also wry that the much-loved Williams has not had a chance to shine in a memorable leading role since 2002.
His reputation as a comedian and actor is mainly based ona number of films from the 1980s and 1990s. In his best work, including his breakthrough film The World According to Garp (1982), he showed how the comedian and the serious actor blended seamlessly. He received his only Oscar for the role of traumatised psychiatrist in Good Will Hunting (1997). Oppressive was the eerie loneliness of his character in One Hour Photo in 2002, the year in which he was also seen alongside Al Pacino in the thriller Insomnia.
So how is it possible that Hollywood has since condemned him to supporting roles and insipid banter? It seems like there was no place for him in the increasingly blockbuster-based film world. For come to think of it, such a film as Garp, which celebrates the chaos of life, is bloody serious and hilarious at the same time, and offers great class for a large audience, we hardly see that anymore.
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