Robin Williams’ unsettling performance in One Hour Photo (2002) is set to return to the spotlight as the film becomes available for streaming on Hulu starting August 1, 2025. This marks the first significant streaming re-release of the movie in the U.S. since its theatrical debut 22 years ago, offering viewers a chance to revisit the actor’s darker, more disturbing role.
The Dark Role Behind One Hour Photo’s Haunting Story
Directed by Mark Romanek, One Hour Photo stars the late Robin Williams as Sy Parrish, a photo technician whose fascination with a suburban family develops into an obsessive, eerie fixation. Departing from the warmth and energy of his well-known characters in films like Mrs. Doubtfire and Good Will Hunting, Williams delivers a cold, restrained performance that strips away his usual charm. His portrayal of Sy Parrish as an emotionally detached man earned him critical acclaim, including a Saturn Award for Best Actor and a Critics’ Choice nomination, and remains a standout example of his artistic range.
Hulu’s August Lineup Offers Nostalgic Thrillers and Classics
Alongside One Hour Photo, Hulu’s August 2025 programming features a variety of nostalgic films, such as Click, 28 Days, and The Exorcism of Emily Rose. While One Hour Photo holds a strong 82% critic rating on Rotten Tomatoes, its 65% audience score points to a mixed reception from general viewers, reflecting the film’s slow-building suspense and unsettling atmosphere that appeals primarily to a patient audience appreciative of psychological thrillers.
What Titles Are Leaving Hulu in August 2025?
Hulu is not only adding new titles like One Hour Photo and the entire John Wick saga but also removing several lesser-known and independent films. Noteworthy among those leaving are Skinamarink (2022), The Friendship Game (2022), and Moving On (2022). Anime fans will also see My Hero Academia: Two Heroes exit the platform on August 21, and the documentary American Rapstar will depart on August 31. This shift suggests Hulu is refining its collection, prioritizing popular legacy titles and original content over recent, low-profile releases from 2021 to 2023.
The Lasting Impact of One Hour Photo’s Streaming Return
Bringing One Hour Photo to Hulu after more than two decades underscores the continued fascination with Robin Williams’ rarely seen darker roles. The film’s reappearance introduces a new generation to his unsettling turn as Sy Parrish, while reminding longtime fans of the depth and diversity in his filmography. As Hulu adjusts its library, the addition of this cult psychological thriller may set the tone for future streaming selections that balance nostalgia with critically acclaimed performances.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Did Robin Williams have a disability?
A. Before doctors diagnosed Robin Williams with Lewy Body Dementia, he had problems like paranoia, confusion, trouble sleeping, constipation, and a loss of his sense of smell.
Q. Who was the last person to talk to Robin Williams?
A. Billy Connolly recently shared details about his final chat with his good friend, the late comedian Robin Williams.
Q. What disability did Robin Williams have?
A. These deposits lead to a type of dementia known as Lewy body dementia (LBD), which affected the late actor Robin Williams. LBD differs from Parkinson’s disease, but they are connected because LBD can cause some or all of Parkinson’s movement symptoms.
Q. Who was at Robin Williams’ funeral?
A. A heartfelt tribute was held for 63-year-old, honoring him were his widow Susan Schneider Williams and children Zak, 31, Zelda, 25, and Cody, 22. They were joined by many family members and friends, such as his Mork & Mindy co-star Pam Dawber, along with George Lucas, Bette Midler, Jeff Bridges, Ben Stiller, and Penny Marshall.
