My Name Is Bill W. (1989)
Based on the true story of Bill W. (James Woods), a successful stock broker whose life falls apart after the stock crash of the 20's and how he comes to grips with his alcoholism. Along with a fellow alcoholic (James Garner) he forms a support group that would eventually become Alcoholics Anonymous.
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Reviews
Sadly Over-hyped
Memorable, crazy movie
Let me be very fair here, this is not the best movie in my opinion. But, this movie is fun, it has purpose and is very enjoyable to watch.
Although I seem to have had higher expectations than I thought, the movie is super entertaining.
The dialogue was melodramatic and trite. Scenes and scenes of crying and complaining and way too much, "I want to be sober, Lo, really I do!" was just a bit too over the top for my taste. The histrionics were verging on comedy. It was quite obvious that it was a made for TV movie. That said, I have to admit that it was a nice tale of how Alcoholics Anonymous got started. The bar scene in Akron, OH, displays accurately, not just the creation of AA, but also why people who are trying to stay sober need something like AA. Overall, it wasn't that bad. There was plenty of eye-rolling on my part,but generally speaking it was nice. I don't think that I will watch it again, but if I'm bored and flip through to the Hallmark channel,I might stop and watch a bit.
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.
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.
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.