“Patch Adams” (1998)

The late great Robin Williams made two kinds of films; straightforward comedies, and inspirational feel-good romps. This film is easily the worst in the latter category. This film’s attempt to oversimplify a fascinating figure’s medical philosophy is insulting, and the film’s usage of strawman villains, rather than attempting to address any legitimate concerns with his methods head-on is legitimately infuriating. It layers on the patronizing sanctimony, with both the subtlety and manipulation of a sledgehammer to the throat. The Patch Adams character in this film is an obnoxious, smug, and annoying presence, who simply cannot fathom why anyone would think differently than him. He is one of the worst written protagonists in a major motion picture I’ve ever seen. This film is trash.

Rating: 0.5/5