Being Human (1994)

Embarking on a profound journey through time, 'Being Human' (1994) presents the audience with five poignant narratives, tightly interwoven to recount the tale of five different men - all named Hector, all portrayed by the enigmatic Robin Williams. These men, despite existing in radically different epochs, find themselves at crucial crossroads in their lives, where their humanity—their very essence—is put to the test. In the harsh wilderness of prehistoric times, Hector lives a tranquil life with his wife and small children on a desolate island in the north. This peaceful existence is fractured when a band of marauding raiders led by a youthful chieftain disrupt their sanctuary. In the grandeur of Ancient Rome, Hector serves as a faithful slave to Lucinnius, a politically connected trader whose fortunes crumble due to a disastrous shipment and the ominous predictions of a soothsayer. As Hector plans to seek his freedom and run away with Thalia, a fellow slave, he finds himself tangled in his master's tragic fate. Fast forward to the medieval era, Hector, now a Scotsman, travels with a well-meaning priest on a mission of mercy aiding fallen crusaders. In the midst of death and despair, he encounters Beatrice, a charming Italian widow. Despite language barriers, they form a deep connection, but Hector soon discovers the complex responsibilities of family life that accompany her. In the Renaissance period, Hector is amongst a group of Portuguese noblemen shipwrecked on the African coast. Struggling to maintain their societal norms in the face of harsh realities, Hector, in a twist of fate, finds a glimmer of hope in his personal misfortunes. Finally, in the hustle and bustle of modern-day New York, Hector is a man striving to mend the strained bonds with his children, navigating through a whirlwind of unfortunate events. From a bizarre accident to the forgotten delivery of flowers for his girlfriend's client, the day spirals into chaos, leading to a heartfelt conversation that may just salvage their relationship. 'Being Human' is a cinematic tapestry, beautifully weaving together tales of love, loss, and human resilience. Each Hector, though distinctly different, shares an enduring spirit that transcends time, offering a profound reflection on the shared struggles and triumphs that constitute the human experience.

Being Human is a comedy movie featuring Robin Williams and directed by Bill Forsyth.

Being Human is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and The Roku Channel and it's also available on Hoopla.

It is also possible to buy Being Human on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Vudu and YouTube.