Patch Adams (1998) — "You treat a disease, you win, you lose. You treat a person, I guarantee you, you win."

Have you ever heard of the healing power of laughter? Mike White March wraps at the scene of the cinematic crime with Patch Adams (1998), a film that weaponizes red noses and sentimentality in equal measure. Guest co-host Mark Begley joins to dissect Tom Shadyac's based-on-a-true-story heartwarmer, in which Robin Williams plays a medical student who believes laughter is the best medicine, even if it means violating every hospital policy in the book. From groan-worthy gags to emotional manipulation set to a soaring score, the trio digs into what works, what absolutely doesn't, and why this film somehow became a cultural touchstone. Bring tissues, and maybe some antacid. Mark Begley and The Projection Booth's Mike White join Chris Stachiw, the Doctor of Podcasting, to talk Robin Williams, Tom Shadyac, the healing power of laughter, and so much more. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-kulturecast--2883470/support. ——— The Kulturecast is a film and culture podcast from Weirding Way Media, hosted by Chris Stachiw, the Doctor of Podcasting, alongside a rotating table of guest co-hosts. Each week digs into where film and culture meet — and how each one bends the other. Now home to sub-feeds including Required Viewing: A 360° Film Study with Dr. David D. Perlmutter. New episodes weekly. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kulturecast/id931361376 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/5wjxip9XVYapYuY12yEaGY. Back the show: https://www.patreon.com/cw/kulturecast