One of the Most Underrated and Unusual Robin Williams Movies Is Now Free to Stream
Robin Williams starred in several iconic films during the 1980s, including Dead Poets Society, Good Morning, Vietnam, and The World According to Garp, as well as the popular TV show Mork & Mindy. Despite this, one of his earliest films often goes unnoticed: Popeye.
Released in 1980, Popeye was Williams’ first leading role and only his second movie overall. It has a unique, almost surreal style—sometimes resembling a vivid fever dream fueled by cocaine and LSD—but that eccentricity is part of its charm.
"When I first saw the movie as a kid, I had no sense of that, but I did immediately love it."
The film offers different experiences depending on the viewer’s age. As a child, you might enjoy the slapstick comedy and Williams’ comically exaggerated forearms, true to the original cartoons. As an adult, the absurd humor, strong performances, and musical numbers stand out, including a soundtrack by the late songwriter Harry Nilsson.
"While it rarely ranks among Robin Williams' best movies, his take on the legendary sailor man is pitch-perfect."
His distinctive mumbling and exaggerated facial expressions bring the character of Popeye to life like never before.
Summary
Author’s take: Popeye is a charmingly odd musical that showcases Robin Williams' unique comedic and dramatic talents in one of his most overlooked roles.