The Surprising Movie Robin Williams Called His Best Film Role

Before Williams died in 2014, he was the subject of a Reddit AMA ("It's time for a convoluted stream of consciousness") to answer questions from fans. Surprisingly, his favorite film was not one of his extensive comedy roles or his Oscar-winning performance in "Good Will Hunting." According to the actor, his favorite was his portrayal of Dr. Malcolm Sayer in "Awakenings," the 1990 film also starring Robert de Niro. 

The film, directed by Penny Marshall, was based on Dr. Oliver Sacks' 1973 memoir of the same name. The film told the fictional story of a neurologist who discovers the benefits of a mysterious drug that "awakens" catatonic patients. According to the Reddit AMA, Williams called the role a "gift" not only because he got to meet Sachs, but also his ability to be able to "explore the human brain from the inside out." He credits the role with igniting his "fascination with human behavior." Considering the conversation Williams' death sparked surrounding mental health, it says a lot that he picked his "Awakenings" role as his favorite of all time.