This is not a bad remake of a 1974 East German film of the same name. "Jakob the Liar" is better than average, and has some strong moments primarily due to some semi-autobiographical elements added by director Peter Kassovitz.
But the film does drag in parts. Robin Williams is not the best choice for the lead role, although he does give an adequate performance.
Although the remake does stand on its own, I do remember the original version has having a stronger emotional impact. The original was also the forerunner of such German-made WWII and Holocaust films as, "The Tin Drum," "Europa, Europa," "The Nasty Girl," and "My Mother's Courage." Rather than remake it, I wish the original "Jakob the Liar" had been re-released.
But the film does drag in parts. Robin Williams is not the best choice for the lead role, although he does give an adequate performance.
Although the remake does stand on its own, I do remember the original version has having a stronger emotional impact. The original was also the forerunner of such German-made WWII and Holocaust films as, "The Tin Drum," "Europa, Europa," "The Nasty Girl," and "My Mother's Courage." Rather than remake it, I wish the original "Jakob the Liar" had been re-released.