Parents' Guide to Robin's Wish

Movie NR 2020 77 minutes
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Common Sense Media Review

Sandie Angulo Chen By Sandie Angulo Chen , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 13+

Touching tribute to Williams' life, struggle with dementia.

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What's the Story?

ROBIN'S WISH takes a close look at Academy Award-winning actor Robin Williams' final years and the rare condition that led to his death by suicide. Although depression (compounded by a recent Parkinson's diagnosis) was widely reported to be the overriding reason for Williams' decision, his widow, Susan Schneider Williams, reveals that the autopsy and subsequent research showed that the actor was suffering from an advanced, extremely severe case of Lewy Body Dementia (LBD), which can impact memory, motor control, and thinking. Susan and several lifelong friends, neighbors, and co-workers (including producers and directors on Williams' final projects) discuss how Williams' behavior changed during the last year of his life. Director Tylor Norwood also includes details about LBD through interviewing specialists who study it, but this isn't just a deep dive into a rare disease. It's a tribute to Robin Williams the actor, the comedian, the friend, and the husband.

Is It Any Good?

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This insightful, intimate documentary explores the real reasons behind Williams' death, pays tribute to the actor's kindness and generosity, and reminds audiences what a legend they lost. Susan is a fierce advocate for her husband's legacy, and she speaks candidly about the demons he fought during the last year of his life. It's almost a relief to find out about his rare, terminal condition, because it explains the depths of despair and confusion that the dementia caused. While depression is treatable, LBD is not, and Susan firmly believes that LBD was like a "terrorist" metaphorically taking over Robin's brain. But the film isn't just about LBD. It's also a tribute to Williams' dedication, passion, and art. Some of the best homages to him come from his waterfront Marin County mansion's neighbors, none of whom are in the industry. Fans will also be touched to hear about Williams' volunteer work with the USO and how often he connected with veterans and active-duty military.

It's surprising to hear from Night at the Museum director Shawn Levy, who reveals that Williams really wasn't himself on set -- and that everyone in the cast and crew knew he wasn't himself but kept it private until Susan went public with the autopsy report's findings. David E. Kelley, who produced The Crazy Ones, also chimes in about the obvious difficulties Williams had remembering his lines. In this age of the 24-hour news cycle, it's amazing that the filmmakers and their crews were able to keep Williams' behavior mostly to themselves. The only conspicuous missing piece from Robin's Wish is the involvement of Williams' children, who are active on social media and in discussing their father but who were involved in a bitter feud with Susan over part of his estate. Ultimately, the film is a testament to a widow's enduring love for her late husband and her commitment to sharing the truth about his little-known condition with the world.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about whether they consider Williams, as portrayed in Robin's Wish, a role model. What made him such a beloved actor and celebrity? How did he help others? How did he demonstrate courage and perseverance? Why are those important character strengths?

  • How can the death of an artist impact fans and popular culture in general? Which actor's or celebrity's death has affected you?

  • What do you consider to be Williams' legacy? Which of his roles did you like most?

  • What did you learn from the documentary? Why do you think it can be difficult to discuss dementia and other chronic diseases?

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