Underrated Robin Williams Movies That Unfortunately Bombed – But Shouldn’t Have
Exploring Robin Williams' overlooked film treasures, that did not get their time to shine when they came out
SUMMARY
- Robin Williams will forever remain a legend who left an indelible mark on the world of cinema with his genius skills as an actor
- The actor had won multiple accolades and starred in some of the biggest hits and critically acclaimed movies that are still considered classics
- But a few of his movies failed to impress back when they came out, but they do deserve as much attention as his acclaimed classics
The late actor Robin Williams remains a prominent figure in the realm of Hollywood and is still celebrated for his comedic prowess and unforgettable roles. The actor is highly known for his improvisational skills and ability to breathe life into diverse characters, from Mrs. Doubtfire to voicing characters like Genie in Disney’s Aladdin.
His intensive acclaim and success are also marked with several accolades, including an Academy Award, along with five Grammy Awards and six Golden Globe Awards. While he has been a rising star since his breakout role in the MBC sitcom Mork & Mindy, the actor still had some movies that were left unappreciated.
The Best of Times (1986)
Directed by Roger Spottiswoode, The Best of Times featured Robin Williams alongside Kurt Russell. The movie follows two friends, Jack Dundee and Reno Hightower, attempting to relive a high school football game. While critics praised the late actor’s work in the movie, it received criticism for its script. Produced for an estimated budget of $12 million, the film ended up being one of the initial box office failures of the legendary actor, grossing only a little over $7 million.
Toys (1992)
Starring an ensemble cast including Robin Williams and Jamie Foxx, the film takes place around a toy company whose employees start banding together to stop the company owner who starts ruining its reputation by producing war toys. Despite earning nominations at the 65th Academy Awards for Art Direction and Costume Design, Toys was a box-office failure, grossing $23 million on an estimated budget of $50 million.
Fathers’ Day (1997)
The 1997 comedy film follows Collette Andrews, who asks for the help of her ex-boyfriends to find her runaway teenage son by telling them each that he is the father of the son. However, despite featuring a talented star cast including Robin Williams and Billy Crystal, the movie failed critically and commercially, making over $35 million on a budget of $85 million. While many consider it an enjoyable film, Fathers’ Day is believed to have failed due to several factors, including its release around Mother’s Day.
What Dreams May Come (1998)
The 1998 fantasy drama What Dreams May Come features Robin Williams as Chris Nielsen, a content pediatrician married to Annie Collins, portrayed by Annabella Sciorra. The couple shares a son, Ian, and a daughter, Marie. Based on Richard Matheson’s 1978 novel of the same name, the movie follows Chris’ journey through heaven and hell to rescue his wife after their tragic deaths.
At the time of its release, the film received mixed reviews, with many criticizing its plot. What Dreams May Come also ended up being a box office bomb, making over $70 million worldwide on an estimated budget of $80-90 million at the time. While it was unable to make it big among critics and at the box office, the audience loved the film, giving it an 84% score on Rotten Tomatoes. One of the factors for which the film received praise was its visuals, and it also won an Oscar for Best Visual Effects.
Bicentennial Man (1999)
Bicentennial Man marked Williams’ second collaboration with filmmaker Chris Columbus after the huge success of Mrs. Doubtfire. The movie features Robin Williams as an immortal NDR robot, Andrew Martin, integrated into the Martin family as a servant. The film follows his remarkable journey as he transforms into a human. However, unlike the 1993 film, it did not receive a positive response from critics or at the box office. It grossed $87.4 million on an estimated budget of $100 million. However, over the years, many have appreciated its concept, stating that it inspires one to live a brighter and positive life.
Death to Smoochy (2002)
Robin Williams portrayed an amiable children’s TV show host “Rainbow” Randolph Smile, who also has a dark side in Death to Smoochy. The movie follows his comedic rivalry with his replacement, Sheldon Mopes, aka Smoochy the Rhino, after Randolph sees a downfall due to his legal troubles. It received mixed reviews and was a huge box office bomb. It grossed only $8.3 million on a budget of $50 million, making it another film that had the potential to do well, as over time, it gained a more favorable review from the audience.
