One of the last film’s Robin Williams ever appeared in is barely known, but has been praised for its “extremely emotional” scenes and “sentimental” tone. The Angriest Man in Brooklyn, directed by Phil Alden Robinson, came out in 2014 and also starred Mila Kunis, Peter Dinklage, James Earl Jones and Melissa Leo.
The comedy-drama is a remake of the 1997 Israeli film The 92 Minutes of Mr Baum. Williams plays an angry man who is told by a doctor that he has a brain aneurysm and only has 90 minutes to live.
The film’s director called Williams an “original talent” who brought his “tremendous lifetime of skill in performing” to the role.
Alden Robinson told Collider: “He’s also a very courageous performer, and what he learned in comedy informs his drama. As a comedian, he was never afraid of anything. He would just go as far as he possibly could with a premise.”
The Angriest Man in Brooklyn received mixed feedback. One reviewer wrote: “It’s a well-acted story with substance – a bittersweet tale of life as it is and life as it can be.
“The very strong cast included cameos by a stuttering James Earl Jones and a piggish Louis CK. Yes, it’s sentimental, but it’s not sloppy about it. It’s humorous without big laughs. It’s quiet and subtle and altogether outstanding.”
Another said: “This movie is funny and made me extremely emotional, as I have always been a huge Robin Williams fan. If you miss him and are ok with going through all sorts of emotions, then absolutely watch this movie.”
However the film only garnered 5.7 stars out of 10 on IMDb, and one reviewer saying: “The story is a simple one, which can make people look at themselves. The acting was great for the most part, however there were points where it feels the comedy is being forced and feels a little off the mark. Don’t let that put you off this emotional, funny and simplistic story.”
Someone else was also less impressed, posting: “I haven’t seen such a weak film for a long time. This film falls apart on many levels. Characterizations are flat and none of the plot lines are believable, acting is.. is there any acting?”
Williams took his own life in August 2014 at the age of 63, and it was later found that he had been suffering from undiagnosed Lewy Body dementia.
His wife Susan Schneider said she was “utterly heartbroken” and wrote in a statement: “As he is remembered, it is our hope the focus will not be on Robin’s death, but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions.”
The Angriest Man in Brooklyn is currently available to stream on Amazon Prime.
