Review of The World According to Garp (1982) by Addy B — 29 May 2011

The novel upon which the film is based is probably my favourite book of all time. It is not a book which could easily be translated into film. It is also a book I am extremely attached to and protective of. The film necessarily excludes much of the content of the novel, but manages to retain the spirit of the story well. I was relieved to find that I very much liked the film. I have never liked Robin Williams more than I did in his portrayal of Garp. Glenn Close was equally convincing, and lovable, as Jenny. As for John Lithgow, well, I think I loved him most of all. And despite having seen him in many roles prior to and after this one, to a certain extent, he'll always be Roberta Muldoon to me.

Writers and directors, take note: this is how you adapt a novel into a film with out desecrating it.