The World According to Garp (1982) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The World According to Garp (1982) is a drama-comedy film directed by George Roy Hill, based on the novel by John Irving. Starring Robin Williams, Mary Beth Hurt, and Glenn Close, the film follows the life of T.S. Garp, a writer whose life is shaped by his eccentric mother, Jenny Fields, and the unpredictable world around him. The film combines elements of satire, drama, and comedy, exploring themes of family, identity, and the struggle between personal desires and societal expectations.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, character dynamics, and overall execution, and provide information on where you can stream, rent, or purchase it online.
Plot Overview
The film centers on T.S. Garp (Robin Williams), the son of Jenny Fields (Glenn Close), a feminist icon and aspiring writer. Garp’s unconventional upbringing, marked by his mother’s controversial public persona and unorthodox choices, shapes his own ambitions and personal life. As Garp grows up, he becomes a writer himself and faces various challenges, including the complexities of his relationship with his mother and the struggles of navigating his own identity and career.
The story delves into Garp’s experiences with love, loss, and personal growth, interwoven with Jenny’s continuing influence and the impact of her choices on his life. The film explores the intersection of personal and political struggles, blending humor with poignant moments to create a rich and multifaceted narrative.
Film Analysis
The World According to Garp is notable for its strong performances and its ability to balance humor with serious themes. Robin Williams delivers a compelling performance as T.S. Garp, showcasing his range as both a comedian and a dramatic actor. His portrayal of Garp captures the character’s vulnerability, resilience, and sense of humor.
Glenn Close provides a standout performance as Jenny Fields, portraying the character’s complexity and depth with nuance. Close’s performance earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Mary Beth Hurt also delivers a memorable performance as Garp’s wife, Helen.
The direction by George Roy Hill brings out the film’s satirical and dramatic elements, effectively capturing the essence of John Irving’s novel. The screenplay, adapted by Steve Tesich, successfully translates the novel’s themes and characters to the screen, blending comedy and drama in a thoughtful and engaging manner.
The cinematography by Miroslav Ondrícek captures the film’s varied settings and the emotional undertones of the story. The film’s score, composed by Richard Bach, complements its tone and enhances the viewing experience.
Where to Watch The World According to Garp (1982) Online in the U.S.
If you’re interested in watching The World According to Garp, here are some options for streaming, renting, or purchasing the film online:
Streaming Services
- HBO Max
The World According to Garp (1982) is available for streaming on HBO Max. A subscription to HBO Max provides access to a wide range of films and TV shows, including classic dramas. HBO Max subscriptions start at $15.99/month. - Amazon Prime Video
The film is also available on Amazon Prime Video for subscribers. Prime membership includes access to a variety of movies and TV shows. Amazon Prime subscriptions start at $14.99/month.
Rental & Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video
For those who prefer to rent or purchase The World According to Garp, Amazon Prime Video offers rental options for $3.99 in HD or purchase for $14.99. This provides a convenient way to watch the film on various devices. - Apple iTunes
The World According to Garp is available for rental on iTunes for $3.99 or for purchase at $14.99. iTunes offers high-definition streaming and is accessible on iOS devices and through Apple TV. - Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV offers the film for rent at $3.99 and for purchase at $14.99. The platform supports streaming on Android devices and web browsers linked to your Google account. - Vudu
Vudu allows viewers to rent The World According to Garp for $3.99 or purchase it for $14.99. Vudu provides a range of streaming options on various devices. - YouTube Movies
The World According to Garp is available on YouTube Movies for rent at $3.99 and for purchase at $14.99. YouTube’s platform supports streaming on any device with access to YouTube.
Other Streaming Services
Currently, The World According to Garp is not available on Netflix, but it can be found on HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video, as well as through various rental and purchase platforms.
Conclusion: Why The World According to Garp (1982) Is a Memorable and Thought-Provoking Film
The World According to Garp (1982) offers a rich and engaging story that blends comedy, drama, and satire. With strong performances from Robin Williams and Glenn Close, and a thoughtful adaptation of John Irving’s novel, the film stands out as a memorable entry in the genre.
Its availability on streaming services and various rental and purchase platforms ensures that you can easily enjoy this classic film.
Watch The World According to Garp today and experience a thought-provoking and entertaining film that explores the complexities of life, family, and personal identity.
