Remembering Robin Williams with Live-Action Aladdin and HBO’s Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind
Aladdin’s live-action release is set for May 2019, and while it is certainly fun to follow its developments, I could not help but feel a little sad when I read that Will Smith would be playing our beloved Genie. I know, character voices often don’t get cast as their live-action counterparts, and we have high hopes that the former Man-in-Black will do a stellar job, but the heart strings were painfully pulled when I was reminded of the loss of our animated Genie.
On a brighter note, today I watched HBO’s bittersweet Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind. This film reminded me of the joy and laughter Williams brought to so many – and the laughter he continues to deliver through the timeless contribution of his films.
Robin Williams passed away just over four years ago on August 11, 2014 (who can believe it has been four whole years already?). Earlier year, HBO released its powerful commemorative documentary film, Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind. Director Marina Zenovich does a beautiful job of portraying passionate funnyman Williams and his energetic comedy career. (Zenovich’s reflections on the film were captured in a fabulous interview conducted by Ashley Morton.)
“This intimate portrait examines one of the world’s most inventive comedians. Told largely through Robin’s own voice and using a wealth of never-before-seen archival footage, the film takes us through his extraordinary life and career and reveals the spark of madness that drove him.” [IMDb]
The film features an all-star cast of some of Williams’ close friends – including Billy Crystal, David Letterman, Whoopi Goldberg and Steve Martin – and special commentary from Williams’ family members. To me, the contributions made by his son, Zach Williams, were particularly moving. The film also touches on the dark side of Hollywood, including the death of Blues Brother John Belushi at the Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles in 1982.
Highly recommended by IMDb (8/10) and Rotten Tomatoes (95%), Robin Williams: Come Inside My Mind is a must-see for fans who will celebrate Williams’ life with laughter for years to come.
Previously: Watch the Teaser Trailer for Disney’s live-action remake of “Aladdin.”