Sexual Whimsy And Comedy In ‘garp’ (Press, 5 November 1984)

On 5 November 1984, a review of the film “The World According to Garp,” directed by George Roy Hill and based on John Irving’s novel, was published. The film is described as an extraordinary blend of sexual whimsy and tragicomedy, exploring the unpredictable challenges faced by a young man. The narrative conveys a unique lesson about confronting trauma, illustrating how overcoming fear can lead to personal empowerment. The film struggles to cohesively tie together the numerous anecdotes from the book, which Hill attempts through a series of short scenes, each lasting no more than 90 seconds. Rather than following traditional narrative climaxes, the scenes are designed to flow together both emotionally and intellectually, creating a cumulative effect. The reviewer, unfamiliar with the source material, acknowledges that Hill's adaptation might suffer from strict adherence to the novel but still finds the film to be intellectually and emotionally satisfying. Robin Williams stars as T. S. Garp, the illegitimate son of a strong-willed nurse played by Glenn Close. Garp's conception occurs in a hospital, setting the scene for his complex life. As he pursues a writing career, Garp finds his path hindered by his mother’s success as she becomes a prominent figure in the women’s liberation movement. Garp grapples with issues of infidelity and the loss of a child, navigating his relationships, particularly with his wife. The film introduces a notable character, Roberta Muldoon, portrayed by John Lithgow, a former football player undergoing a sex change. The dynamics of Garp's life unfold as he faces both personal and broader societal challenges, ultimately leading to an unexpected ending that resonates with American cultural realities. The work deftly interweaves themes of tragedy and humour, capturing the complexities of life with a balance of absurdity and sincerity. Williams’ portrayal of Garp showcases his range, while Lithgow's performance lends dignity to a challenging role. However, it is Glenn Close's portrayal of Garp's eccentric mother that leaves a lasting impression, marking her impressive debut in feature films after her success in theatre. The film finally makes its way to Christchurch after a lengthy run in Auckland and Wellington, albeit as a last-minute selection due to scheduling issues from other films. While audiences in Christchurch are now able to experience “Garp,” they face a delay in the anticipated screening of Hitchcock films that were to follow. The review highlights the film's delayed release and the cultural significance of its themes, solidifying its impact in cinema at that time.

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