The World According to Garp (1982)

I watched this one long ago; I remember it being a very good film, and was critically acclaimed. The jest of the story is about a man who for the most part led an extremely unusual life. He is surrounded by unique individuals who shape his thoughts and feelings. George Roy Hill directed this one, and captured a true classic which many people have never heard of. It was based off of the John Irving novel. Steve Tesich wrote the screenplay.

The tagline that was used was fairly simple and that was “Robin Williams is Garp. He’s got a funny way of looking at life” I guess this was fitting enough to work for the film.

The cast is an exceptional collection of talent that really brought a lot to their roles. Robin Williams stars as Garp and captures your attention. This truly is one of his best performances on screen. Mary Beth Hurt plays Helen Holm. Glenn Close plays Jenny Fields and John Lithgow who played Roberta Muldoon both of which were nominated for Oscars for their performances. The late Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy play Mr. and Mrs. Fields. Both of them later appear together in other films such as Cocoon (1985) and *batteries not included (1987). Swoosie Kurtz plays a Hooker, James McCall is the younger version of Garp, Peter Michael Goetz is John Wolfe, George Ede is Dean Bodger, Mark Soper is Michael Milton, Nathan Babcock is Duncan, Ian MacGregor is Walt, Warren Berlinger is Stew Percy, and Susan Browning is Midge Percy from Steering School.

The character Garp is quite exceptional and shows interest in writing and wrestling based upon the influences of his mother. It was pure chance that Garp was ever born. I think this is such an interesting and original story that most people will find it to be a treat to watch. Check this one out if you want to see a most unusual storyline.