Directed by -------------- Tom Shadyac 
Produced by ------------- Barry Kemp, Mike Farrell, Marvin Minoff, Charles Newirth 
Executive producers ------ Marsha Garces Williams, Tom Shadyac 
Co-producers ------------ Steve Oedekerk, Devorah Moos-Hankin 
Associate producers ------ Alan B. Curtiss, Allegra Clegg 
Assistant director --------- Alan B. Curtiss 
Camera ------------------ Phedon Papamichael 
Editor -------------------- Don Zimmerman 
Music -------------------- Marc Shaiman 
Production designer ------ Linda Descenna 
Art director -------------- Jim Nedza 
Costume designer -------- Judy Ruskin-Howell 
Special effects coordinator -- David Blitstein 
Screenplay --------------- Steve Oedekerk 
Based on the book “Gesundheit: Good Health is a Laughing Matter” by Hunter Doherty Adams and Maureen Mylander 
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for some strong language and crude humor 
Running time: 115 min 
 

Comments

In "Patch Adams", a movie about a physician with a rubber nose,  Hunter Adams (Patch Adams) using laughter for its therapeutic value. Patch goes too far for some when he acts like a clown for some young patients then applies his laughter medicine to some adults. In particular, it's Dean Walcott who doesn't appreciate the shenanigans and tries to get Patch removed. Patch then has to reach inside himself for support. 

Laughter is contagious. 
Comedy drama. 

Based on the book “Gesundheit: Good Health is a Laughing Matter” by Hunter Doherty Adams and Maureen Mylander. 

Related Items 

 

"Soundtrack  Patch Adams"  Audio CD (December 22, 1998)  Uni/Universal Records; ASIN: B00000GBRH
"Gesundheit : Bringing Good Health to You, the Medical System, and Society Through Physician Service, Complementary Therapies, Humor and Joy"  by Patch Adams, Maureen Mylander (Contributor)   Paperback - 224 pages Revised edition (November 1998)   Healing Arts Pr; ISBN: 089281781X
"House Calls : How We Can All Heal the World One Visit at a Time"  by Patch Adams, Pamela D. Jacobs (Editor)   Paperback - 140 pages (October 1998)  Robert D Reed; ISBN: 1885003188

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Fan Comments 
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22 May - An Aussie that has the pleasure recently of viewing Patch Adams. It was an extremely good portrayal of a man we all should know more about and I am appreciative the casting of the movie showed good sense in using Robin Williams in the title role - as he, I feel, was the only one that could bring the true character of Hunter Adams to the screen and do him true justice. Needless to say I thoroughly enjoy this movie and it touched me in away nothing could. As a doctor myself (even though for animals) I feel my unorthodox methods that get results and the disdain of a number of my more highly qualified piers are justified no matter the comments they stimulate.

10 Jan - This movie is a must see for anyone who currently works in health care. I am a RN in Nursing Administration and plan to encourage all those who work with me to experience this wonderful movie. This movie should be required for all physicians! -- Joleen, RN 

4 Jan - I just saw Patch Adams, definitely one one of the best movies of all time. Really touching and extremely hilarious at the same time! 

2 Jan 99 - I loved the movie "Patch Adams". I am going to go and see it a second time, and I am taking my family with me. It was consistently funny and inspiring. This story has inspired me to become a psychologist/therapist and I would be honored to work in this hospital. Congratulations, and good luck. -- Kate 

1 Jan 99 - While the main actors of this touching film gave stirring performances, I would like to take this opportunity to comment on the supporting cast, including Peter Coyote, Irma Hall, and the refreshing newcomer, Daniella Kuhn. Their efforts bolstered the emotional depth of the film. My accolades to casting director Debra Zane. 

1Jan 99 - Just saw Patch Adams and I haven't laughed or cried so much in a long time. Being a disabled person I KNOW how much I wish my doctors were more humorous than they are! I'll be sure to pass on the encouragement of having them see the movie. Thanks for the wonderful laughs!!! -- G 

1 Jan 99 - What a great reminder of what is important! I've seen the movie twice in the last 3 days. This movie appealed to people of all ages. My son who is only 14 thought it was great. I applaud Patch Adams for his devoted work. If there's ever a job for a goofy elementary teacher from Kansas in his new institute I'll be there! 

1 Jan 99 - I went to see the movie " Patch Adams" with 3 friends last night. We all agreed that it was wonderful. What a joy to see such a good movie in this day when there is so much trash on the screen. -- Letha 

30 Dec - I too saw the movie. It is without a doubt one of the best movies I've ever seen. I hope the real Dr. Patch Adams never ever changes!!! We need a million more just like him!! Again let me say, forget what those two critics say, the movie was great!!!!!!! 

28 Dec - I found "Patch Adams" to be a very good comedy with some very deep views. I love the dramatic twist to the very serious thoughts. I didn't like the death of Carrin but even with that I found the movie to be very good. I give it 5 stars; this is one I will certainly own. 

25 Dec - Just returned home from the twilight showing of Patch Adams. Delightful. I cried in all the right parts. I screamed silly in all the right parts. I am the "Patch Adams" of pediatric nursing; I always have the staff in stitches coming apart at the seams. This film has soul solid soul and everybody is a winner. I think even the crotchety old dean. 
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