Patch Adams (1998)

My Review

“Patch Adams” is a medical biopic about a doctor who uses unconventional methods, such as humor, to deal with his patients and their afflictions. As a result, he comes into conflict with the medical establishment but is popular with the patient population. Robin Williams stars as real-life Dr. Hunter “Patch” Adams, with his personality and range of acting a good fit in the title role.

Director Tom Shadyak (“Liar Liar” 1997) and screenwriter Steve Oedekerk have put together a good adaptation of Dr. Adams’ book “Gesundheit: Good Health is a Laughing Matter.” Co-stars include Monica Potter, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Bob Gunton, Daniel London, Peter Coyote, Michael Jeter, Harve Presnell, Richard Kiley, Harold Gould, James Green, Irma P. Hall, and Josef Summer.

“Patch Adams” was popular at the box office for producers Mike Farrell and Marcia Garces Williams (wife of Robin Williams), Blue Wolf, Bungalow 78 Productions, Farrell/Minoff, and Universal Pictures.