The following is an Open Letter to Robin Williams:

Robin,

I know we aren’t friends. You don’t even know me, although I know you. We even live down the street from one another. I’ve followed your career since Mork & Mindy (in reruns). I’m a big fan of your earlier work, and an even bigger supporter of your dramatic crossover films, Good Will Hunting and One Hour Photo in particular. Heck, I even enjoyed Hook.

What happened to the last five years? RV? Man of the Year? Night at the Museum? Sure, Night and RV were extremely profitable films. But you must admit: they weren’t quality films, not even in the popcorn movie sense.

And now you’ve signed on to star in Old Dogs, the next movie which is sure to reap tons of undeserved cash at the box office. Families are sure to buy tickets based on your name brand and the inevitable PG-rating. The story centers on two best friends/business partners who see their lives turned upside down when they find themselves in the care of 7-year-old twins. How can Walt Becker (Wild Hogs) sleep at night? And John Travolta, what happened? He was given a second chance and he blew it!? Robin, not everyone gets a second chance - remember that.

May-be this project is the next Citizen Kane. May-be I’m missing something. But I’m pretty sure I’m right.

Peter Sciretta
/Film Editor in Chief