Robin Williams’ 5 Best Performances

His accolades include 1 Oscar, 2 Emmys and 6 Golden Globes

From shooting to stardom as Mork on Happy Days, Robin Williams entertained the world ten times over. Whether you were a child or an adult, there was always content of his to make you laugh!

In honour of the mad man/genius who is missed by all since his death in 2014, we at ScreenHeads are listing our top 5 of his performances (this was a hard one).

5. Parry in The Fisher King (1991)

Directed by Terry Gilliam of Monty Python fame, Williams plays Parry, a man whose shattered life is attempted to be put back together by a radio host – played by Jeff Bridges – who is looking for redemption.

The part gives us the signature outlandishness from Williams whilst also surging sympathy for the tragedy surrounding the character. The role earned him an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe win respectively.

4. Adrian Cronauer in Good Morning, Vietnam (1987)

The role that arguably made Williams a big screen star. This 80’s classic has him star as real life Air Force Sergeant Adrian Cronauer. The story follows as his disc jockey antics prove uplifting and entertaining for the troops but unsuitable for his superiors.

The role really lets Williams flex his improv muscles more than ever. We watch as he is let loose the moment his radio hosting scenes are filming. In fact, it is known that Williams ad-libbed every single one of his character on-air broadcasts. A must-see if you haven’t already.

Related Article: Hugh Jackman’s 5 Best Performances

3. Genie in Aladdin (1992)

Another perfect example of the comedy master improvising to his fullest, except this time there is no boundaries thanks to the help of animation. Disney’s take on the classic story of Aladdin bring us Williams’ take on The Genie, a magical being in a lamp who is summoned to grant his master 3 wishes.

Throughout the film, you can tell the star’s lightning quick mind has been at work. It is reported that whilst in the recording booth, Williams asked if he could try a few of his own jokes and characterisations – that left Disney with a whopping 16 hours of material to play with!

2. Daniel Hillard in Mrs Doubtfire (1993)

The film that makes us all want to dress in drag…right? Williams stars as Daniel Hillard, an actor who disguises himself as an elderly housekeeper to spend time with his children whilst in the midst of a messy divorce.

This role was reportedly attempted to be brought back for a sequel numerous times, however a story could never be found satisfying enough, especially with the fact that the character’s identity was outed at the end of the original. Williams was said to have had fun in the costume between filming scenes, so much so that he would venture out into the public as the character…even found himself entering an adult toy store, but that story is for a very different website!

1. Sean Parker in Good Will Hunting (1997)

Nabbing the top spot, as most of you probably expected, is Williams’ serious turn as Dr. Sean Maguire, a therapist tasked with treating young math whiz Will Hunting, portrayed by Matt Damon. This role won the actor his only Academy Award in 1998 for Best Supporting Actor.

The Gus Van Sant directed film became a very popular choice among his fans, so much that the bench in the Boston Public Garden – the very same where that famous speech scene between Maguire and Hunting takes place – became a memorial area for him upon his death. Fans would leave the likes of quotes and flowers there. There has even been a petition floating around for a statue of Williams to be erected near there!

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There you have it. What are your thoughts on our choices? Would have chosen other performances? Let us know all in the comment section below!