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Robin Williams' Lost Film Project Revived?
6 May
Summary
- A memoir about dissociative identity disorder was set for a film.
- Robin Williams was attached to star in the adaptation.
- The project stalled due to leadership changes at Disney.
Cameron West's powerful memoir, "First Person Plural: My Life as a Multiple," first published in 1999, detailed his experience with dissociative identity disorder. The book, co-written with his wife Rikki West, offered an intimate look into his life and struggles stemming from childhood trauma.
West's unflinching account resonated globally, leading to an appearance on "The Oprah Winfrey Show" and a New York Times best-seller status. Disney acquired the screen rights in a seven-figure deal, intending for Robin Williams to star and Eric Roth to write the adaptation. Williams, fresh off an Oscar win, formed a deep connection with West, reportedly meeting his alters to prepare for the role.
Despite significant initial interest and development, including buzz at the 2000 Oscars, the film project lost momentum due to leadership changes at Disney. While the rights remain with the studio, the adaptation never materialized, a significant disappointment for West and his wife, who still possess a draft of Roth's screenplay.
The rerelease of "First Person Plural" incorporates West's ongoing life and evolving understanding of DID. He now hopes the film project can be revived, perhaps as a series, to honor Williams' memory and tell the full, continuing story.
