4. Dr. Sobel in Analyze This
Analyze This is the first in a two part gangster comedy film with Robert De Niro as the mafia boss patient and Billy Crystal as the psychiatrist. As with all the therapists we have encountered so far Dr. Sobel has problems of his own, even before Vitti barges into his life. His son from his first marriage listens in on his sessions, which isnt great for the whole confidentiality rule, his patients do not inspire or challenge him, everyone compares him to his superstar psychiatrist father and hes preoccupied with his upcoming wedding in Miami. Then Vitti comes along and demands that Sobel treat him from his very un-gangster disorder: panic attacks. For most professional psychiatrists being forced into cooperating with a criminal is a professional death sentence but Sobel is so dissatisfied with his own practice it actually spruces things up for him. Still, as a doctor you wouldnt find yourself wanted him to treat you. Heres some weird advice he gives to a couple in counselling:
Here's what I think you should do, Elaine. I would do whatever he says. If he wants you to talk, talk. I would get on all fours and bark like a dog. I would do whatever it takes. Smoke some joints! Drink some wine!