Review of World's Greatest Dad (2009) by Jason I — 22 Jul 2012

In this dark social satire, a failing writer gains a peripheral fame when he pens his son's suicide note.

I'm very impressed with Bobcat Goldthwait as a director. He over-does the montages a bit, but his direction is smart, sensitive, and filled with a deadpan humor, quite unlike the twisted screaming that characterized his acting and stand-up. And Robin Williams gives a great performance as a flawed person who seeks recognition and love but does so in a twisted way.

At the heart of Goldthwait's satire is our society's glamorization of the dead. We romanticize posthumously, over-looking the deceased flaws with a blindness that humors Goldthwait and provides excellent fodder for his film.

Within the character, I don't understand Lance's third act decision; it's obviously required for the film to satisfy any discerning audience's expectations, but it seems to me that Lance didn't have to do as he did. (Obviously, I'm writing obliquely to avoid giving anything away.).

Overall, this is a strong, funny film, and it sets Goldthwait apart as a serious filmmaker with some poignant things to say.