Robin Williams may have started a comic, but he was equally impressive as a dramatic actor.
Credit: Reuters
With a film and television career spanning more than 40 years, Robin Williams has left an indelible mark on the entertainment world. His work as a stand-up comedian — including his years co-hosting “Comic Relief” — have influenced countless famous joke-slingers and he’s rightly known as a comic force, but his best work wasn’t always done making people laugh.
The World According to Garp (1982)
In just his third feature film outing, Williams revealed an impressive range as the titular Garp, struggling to escape the shadow of his feminist icon mother (Glenn Close).
Club Paradise (1986)
Williams takes what could be a frothy lark and injects some serious pathos into this underrated tale of a burnt-out fireman running away to the islands to bilk tourists.
Good Morning, Vietnam (1987)
In his first Oscar-nominated performance, Williams finds the balance of silly and serious that would become his trademark as an actor.
Dead Poets Society (1989)
Williams earns Another Oscar nod for his portrayal of John Keating, the English teacher everyone wishes they had.
The Fisher King (1993)
His third Oscar nomination — before finally taking home a trophy for “Good Will Hunting” — found Williams giving his all to Terry Gilliam’s tale of chivalry, romance and mental illness in pre-Giuliani New York City.
