World's Greatest Dad

Synopsis

In World's Greatest Dad, Robin Williams delivers a poignant performance as Lance Clayton, a struggling writer and high school teacher whose life takes a darkly comedic turn. After a tragic incident involving his troubled teenage son, Lance finds himself in a complex web of lies and unexpected fame as he attempts to forge a new identity for both himself and his late son. The film explores themes of fatherhood, societal expectations, and the often harsh realities of life, all wrapped in a satirical yet heartfelt narrative. As Lance navigates the aftermath, he begins to reflect on his own shortcomings and the essence of what it truly means to be a father. With witty dialogue and a blend of humor and sadness, the film raises questions about legacy and the impact of our choices. With an outstanding performance and clever writing, 'World's Greatest Dad' captures the bittersweet essence of parenthood in a way that is both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Cast

• 

  Robin Williams

  Lance Clayton

• 

  Alexie Gilmore

  Claire Reed

• 

  Daryl Sabara

  Kyle Clayton

• Evan Martin

  Andrew Troutman

• 

  Geoff Pierson

  Principal Wyatt Anderson

• 

  Henry Simmons

  Mike Lane

Reviews

Critics have responded warmly to World's Greatest Dad, applauding Robin Williams' return to more dramatic territory while still infusing humor into the film. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an impressive approval rating of 88%, with critics praising its unique blend of comedy and tragedy. 'It's a darkly funny film that pushes the boundaries of typical family dramas,' one reviewer from The New York Times noted. IMDb users rated it 6.9/10, conveying a mixed but generally positive reception among audiences. The film was also featured on Metacritic, where it earned a score of 69/100. Many critics highlighted its ability to tackle heavy subjects with grace, stating, 'Williams delivers a performance that is both heartfelt and hilariously absurd.' Indiewire remarked, 'The film doesn't shy away from difficult topics, and that makes it all the more relatable.' Overall, while some critics felt the film teetered on the edge of melancholy, many found its approach refreshing and insightful, offering a profound commentary on father-son relationships in modern society.