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    My Name Is Bill W.

    Poster of the movie My Name Is Bill W.
    1989     Drama    
    USA
    1h 40min

    Based on the true story of Bill W. (James Woods), a successful stock broker whose life falls apart after the stock crash of the 20's and how he comes to grips with his alcoholism. Along with a fellow alcoholic (James Garner) he forms a support group that would eventually become Alcoholics Anonymous. There is a crucial moment in this film when Bill W., stranded in Akron, Ohio, after a business deal falls through, paces a hotel lobby with his eyes drawn to the cocktail lounge, and in desperation hears himself saying on the phone, "I need to talk to another drunk." That leads to his historic first meeting with Dr. Bob Smith, an Akron surgeon whose drinking was endangering his career and the lives of his patients. This 'creation' tale of AA is like The Greatest Story Ever Told.

    Directed byDaniel Petrie
    Written byWilliam G. Borchert
    CompanyAmerican Broadcasting CompanyAmerican Broadcasting CompanyAmerican Broadcasting Company

    Awards

    Starring

    James Woods
    JoBeth Williams
    James Garner
    Gary Sinise
    + MORE

    © American Broadcasting CompanyAmerican Broadcasting CompanyAmerican Broadcasting Company