My Name Is Bill W.

this type of film. He has such a diverse acting range, but it would be nice to see him in other films of this genre (See my review of "The Boost"). While the latter was not a great film, Woods elevates the material, as he does with this made for TV film as well.

The Story of Bill W. is about the actual founder of AA and the doctor (James Garner) who was his sponsor. Years ago (Think Ray Milland in "The Lost Weekend") people were simply locked up in asylums if they had addictions or neuroses. When AA was founded, it represented a way for people to help each other, without incarceration or cruel and inhumane treatment.

This film is important because it educates the audience about subject matter most people deny, or refuse to face. Similar social issues, such as homelessness and mental disorders are also touched on, as alcoholism is a disease, and causes many other societal problems. Watch this film. the story is well told, and the acting (especially by Woods) is excellent.

Not much to add to the hugely favorable consensus here about this made-for-tv-movie, so I will just echo what has been said. Good story about a vitally important organization, the man that founded it and how he did so. Good acting all around, good writing, and good direction.

Well worth seeing, not just as a docudrama, but as a well-crafted piece of cinema.

This movie carries a great message, and I was deeply touched by the story of the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous. It's an important historic treasure being preserved in a true and respectful film. The story is straightforward and strong and gives and honest impression of the pioneers of AA. Let this movie carry the message too.. There is a solution.. ;-)

If you liked this one - watch "Pay it forward" - a wonderful movie with a similar theme.

I was a partly-involved spectator during the filming of the movie, and it was an incredible experience. The quality of the actors was usurped only by their unending interest in the story of Bill W and the important message they were delivering.

James Garner and James Woods were intensely focused on keeping the story of Dr. bob and Bill as true to form as possible. Jo Beth Williams played Lois Wilson incredibly well; first as a confused wife with no options and a drunkard husband; then as a strong willed but understanding partner for life.

If anyone has a loved one or knows of a friend whose life is impacted by an alcoholic, then this movie is both an eye opener and an inspiration to keep trying to find a way to fight and deal with the disease.

Message to the rights holders of this fine film: Why is this out of print and selling used for between $35 and 70$? How about another run of this...maybe this time on DVD?

I've found it to be one of the best and only movies to deal with Alchoholics anonymous and a must have for any member of AA and anyone wanting to share the experience with others.

Since I need to have at least 10 lines of text to post here I guess I'm just gonna keep typing even though I'm completely out of things to say. My name is Charlie T and I'd rather not share today but I am being forced.

Thankfully...this is my 10th line of text!