Loving but irresponsible dad Daniel Hillard, estranged from his exasperated spouse, is crushed by a court order allowing only weekly visits with his kids. When Daniel learns his ex needs a housekeeper, he gets the job -- disguised as a British nanny. Soon he becomes not only his children's best pal but the kind of parent he should have been from the start.
Acting
Williams' rapid-fire improv made editors weep — hours of gold left on floor.
Practical Effects
That latex mask? Took 4.5 hours to apply daily. Williams suffered for this art.
Writing
The restaurant scene — three identities, one actor, pure comedic tension.
Director
Chris Columbus
Robin Williams
Daniel Hillard / Mrs. Doubtfire
Sally Field
Miranda Hillard
Lisa Jakub
Lydia Hillard
Matthew Lawrence
Chris Hillard
Mara Wilson
Natalie Hillard
Pierce Brosnan
Stu
Robert Prosky
Mr. Lundy
Anne Haney
Mrs. Sellner
Harvey Fierstein
Frank
Scott Capurro
Jack
Polly Holliday
Gloria
Sydney Walker
Bus Driver
Joe Bellan
TV Boss
Martin Mull
Justin Gregory
Terence McGovern
ADR Director Lou
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The restaurant scene required such precise timing that Williams performed it 20+ times, each with different improvised bits.
The film sparked debates about drag and transgender identity that it wasn't equipped to handle — Mrs. Doubtfire's 'transvestite' keyword feels dated and reductive now.
US
