11 Robin Williams movies to watch in tribute on 11th anniversary
Actor Robin Williams poses for a portrait during the Happy Feet Press Junket in Beverly Hills, Calif. on Saturday, Nov. 5, 2011. (Dan Steinberg/Invision/AP Images)
Even 11 years after his passing on August 11, 2014, Robin Williams remains an irreplaceable force in cinema, his wit, warmth, and depth echoing across generations. To celebrate his profound legacy, here’s a handpicked selection of 10 essential films, spanning comedy, drama, and animation, each streaming today for fans old and new.
1. Good Will Hunting
In this emotionally resonant drama, Williams delivers his legendary turn as Dr. Sean Maguire, a therapist helping a troubled genius. The role earned him an Academy Award.
Watch on: Max / Rent or buy on Amazon.
2. Dead Poets Society
Williams inspires a generation of students as the passionate English teacher John Keating, delivering the enduring line, “Carpe diem” .
Watch on: Amazon (rent/buy)
3. Mrs. Doubtfire
As a father disguised as a nanny, Williams blends humor with heartfelt emotion in one of his most beloved comedies.
Watch on: Hulu / Rent or buy on Amazon.
4. Aladdin
Williams’ genie in Aladdin defined a generation, his improvisational energy making the role unforgettable.
Watch on: Disney+ / Rent or buy on Amazon.
5. The Birdcage
In this sharp comedy, Williams plays a loving father balancing chaos and acceptance at his nightclub.
Watch on: Peacock (added recently)/ Prime Video.
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6. Good Morning, Vietnam
Williams shines as a freewheeling radio DJ in war-torn Saigon, part comedy, part raw emotion, entirely unforgettable.
Watch on: Amazon (rent/buy).
7. The Fisher King
A redemption quest with Williams delivering a surreal, touching performance opposite Jeff Bridges
Watch on: Amazon (rent/buy).
8. One Hour Photo
Here, Williams plays a lonely photo technician, yet another unforgettable dramatic turn that shows his formidable range.
Watch on: Hulu (recently added) / Amazon (rent).
9. Hook
Williams returns to Neverland as a grown Peter Pan, weaving nostalgia, wonder, and emotional depth.
Watch on: Netflix (US) / Rent or buy on Amazon.
10. Awakenings
A deeply moving drama where Williams plays a dedicated doctor battling the limits of medicine and hope.
Watch on: Rent or buy on Amazon.
11. Insomnia
In one of his most haunting performances, Williams plays a small-town crime novelist suspected of murder, opposite Al Pacino in Christopher Nolan’s gripping psychological thriller. This role showcased his ability to embody morally complex, chilling characters.
Watch on: Max/Rent or buy on Amazon.
Why These Films Matter
From uproarious comedy to soul-stirring drama, these films showcase Robin Williams’ immense versatility and his ability to touch hearts across genres. Whether you’re laughing, crying, or remembering, each film offers a different facet of his genius.
As we mark the 11th anniversary of his passing, these films serve as reminders of how Robin Williams lived through his art, moving us all to feel deeper, laugh harder, and seize every day.