Patch Adams [1999]


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Editorial
Amazon.co.uk Review

Patch Adams raises two schools of thought: there are those who are inspired by the true story of a troubled man who finds happiness in helping others--a man set on changing the world and who may well accomplish the task. And then there are those who feel manipulated by this feel-good story, who want to smack the young medical student every time he begins his silly antics.

Staving off suicidal thoughts, Hunter Adams commits himself into a psychiatric ward, where he not only garners the nickname "Patch" but learns the joy in helping others. To this end, he decides to go to medical school, where he clashes with the staid conventions of the establishment as he attempts to inject humour and humanity into his treatment of the patients ("We need to start treating the patient as well as the disease", he declares throughout the film). Robin Williams, in the title role, is as charming as ever, although someone should tell him to broaden his range--the ever-cheerful, do-gooder à la Good Will Hunting and Dead Poets Society is getting a little old. His sidekick Truman (Daniel London) steals the show with his gawky allure and eyebrows that threaten to overtake his lean face--he seems more real, which is odd considering that Patch Adams does exist and this film is based on his life. Monica Potter is the coolly reluctant love interest and she makes the most of her one-dimensional part. While moments of true heartfelt emotion do come through, the major flaw of this film is that the good guys are just so gosh-darn good and the bad ones are just big meanies with no character development. Patch Adams, though, does provide the tears, the giggles and the kooky folks who will keep you smiling at the end. --Jenny Brown



Deplorable
Review date: 2008-05-01 Rating: 2 out of 10

Mawkish to the point of being gruesome, each scene without exception is sunk by a tidal wave of faux sentimentality. The script is awful, the characters feeble. Utterly painful.


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Reviews


Brilliant Fun!
Review date: 2008-04-19 Rating: 10 out of 10

I had the chance a few years ago to purchase the book on Patch Adams' life, took time to read it and enjoyed every second, but it was probably the hardest book I have ever tried to read. Filled with medical terminology that uses up every letter in the alphabet in each word, it was a chore at times. I am after all, no doctor!!!

Thank God that this film was not that difficult. In essence, what they have done is base the story on the book, but in usual Hollywood fashion, have added that huge dollop of fun and entertainment in order to show the story to a wider audience.

I have always been a fan of Robin Williams since seeing a live show of stand up on TV and have enjoyed most of his films as he has made them, with the possible exception of the one where he stars as the photo shop neurotic and have loved this film since its coming to the silver screen.

The story of one man who found 'his' answer to all his problems in the fact that he could help others to live with their pain through non-medical intervention is one that needs to be shared with the medical profession. It may be annoying to some of those who are politically correct, who do not like to see criticism of any profession shown on screen, but in essence, the message is simple: there can be fun and frivolity found in all aspects of life, and most especially, death! If you are not sure what I mean, read the book as well as buying this wonderful DVD.

I enjoyed the difficulty of the book, but thank you Mr Williams and Co. for providing me with hours of endless fun. Long may the real Patch Adams continue to spread the word to those who need to hear it!!!


PAINFUL
Review date: 2007-10-22 Rating: 2 out of 10

My friend Olly didn't like this film. I thought it certainly wasn't Robin's best (doesn't compare to Dead Poets'). In fact, it was quite painful indeed. It was insulting to patients, doctors and psychos. It was also factually incorrect.

Please. Don't.


Sappy at times but crosses the ramp
Review date: 2007-06-23 Rating: 6 out of 10

A movie the cynics love to hate, "Patch Adams" has its sappy and manipulative aspects, but it is also good-hearted, innocent and entertaining. Certainly not the worst of Robin Williams' roles, but not one of his best, either.

I recommend that cynics avoid this movie at all costs, because you will despise it. However, for those without a cynical bone in their body, you may really enjoy this. There are some very moving moments, although the film requires a strong suspension of disbelief and a willingness to be emotionally manipulated by the story. Overall, I liked the movie very much (there are many moments of laughter and tears).


one of the best of all time
Review date: 2006-05-23 Rating: 10 out of 10

this is without a doubt the best robin williams film i have ever seen. it is like the character of patch adams was created for robin williams he has the most amazingly warm and friendly face, which if you watch the film you will find out is exactly what the character needs to bring him to life. i know the film is based on a true story and that makes it even more wonderful. there are so many contrasts of emotions in this film that it just maked it utterly stupendiously brilliant. the acting is amazing the screenplay is fantastic and the directing captures the mood perfectly for each scene. i cant tell you anymore other than to watch the film is to enjoy the film

Product Details/Specifications


Actor(s):
Monica Potter
Daniel London
Bob Gunton
Philip Seymour Hoffman
Robin Williams

Creators:
Robin Williams (Primary Contributor)
Daniel London (Primary Contributor)

Director(s):

Recording label: Universal Pictures UK
Manufacturer: Universal Pictures UK
EAN: 5050582041521
Binding: DVD
Number of items: 1
Format: PAL, Widescreen,
Release date: 2003-09-08
Number of discs: 1
Aspect ratio: 2.35:1
Audience rating: Suitable for 15 years and over
Region code: 2
Running time: 111 minutes
Theatrical release date: 1998-12-25
Language: Czech (Subtitled)
Language: Danish (Subtitled)
Language: Dutch (Subtitled)
Language: English (Subtitled)
Language: Finnish (Subtitled)
Language: German (Subtitled)
Language: Greek (Subtitled)
Language: Hebrew (Subtitled)
Language: Norwegian (Subtitled)
Language: Polish (Subtitled)
Language: Swedish (Subtitled)
Language: English (Original Language)
Language: German (Dubbed)

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