Seize the Day

Saw this on American Playhouse years ago. A very powerful performance by Robin Williams. A slice in the life of a man on the brink of desperation, a life long midnight of the soul. There is no resolution because there is not supposed to be a resolution. I don't necessarily recommend seeking it out, but if given a chance to see it please do so.

Like a whirlpool, this downward spiral of a movie has many redeeming qualities, but anything the slightest bit upbeat would not be among them. Robin Williams and Jerry Stiller carry the burden of taking what could have been a real turnoff of a film, and making it at least enlightening. "Seize the Day" is all about relationships, most of which are so flawed, and beyond saving, that hopelessness gradually smothers whatever hope you might have had for a better outcome. The 50s look, script, and acting are very good. I say this, if you go in expecting great 50s atmosphere, fine screenplay, and believable characters, you will not be disappointed. - MERK

I remember this movie because I took a junior college course entitled literature and film. One of the books was Saul Bellow's novel, Seize the Day. I don't remember much about the story but I remember the film. It's set in New York City about a poor man played to perfection by the one and only Robin Williams. It's not a laughing matter with him in the starring role as the Jewish salesman. The final scene leaves more questions than answers. I remember the film was faithful to the author's version. After all, Saul Bellow is a Nobel Prize winner for literature. Robin's performance is no laughing matter because his character can never catch a break in New York City. You just realize that he is one of thousands who are more or less suffering from society's neglect. In the end, society can be hell after all.

This is an obscure little film that is probably Williams' best dramatic role--at least on par with the troubled psychiatrist in "Good Will Hunting". He plays a man victimized by his life--everything that can go wrong does go wrong. Williams is painful to watch in this role, but proves that his dramatic talent knows no bounds. Absolutely compelling; a film I am not likely to forget. Why this sleeper is so underrated and obscure I will never know. If you can get your hands on it, do so!

This film is a match for Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman. A very tightly controlled drama with richly vivid characters and the casting is excellent. Robin Willimas has never done anything better and without all of that comedy schtick that he is so famous for. Joseph Wiseman is an absolute monster and that 'hotel' they live in might as well be hell. It is even depicted as hell with those scenes in the steam room/spa with all those walking corpses wondering around. I read the novel this was based on nearly thirty years ago, and my feeling then as now, seeing the film, is that there is no resolution. Wilkie has no exit from his situation. One thing for sure, he needs to get away from those people (his girlfriend seems to be in love w/him, regardless of the money, so that's something). I give this a very strong recommendation.