Dr. Venkman Reviews: Flash of Genius
If you are in the mood for an inspiring movie, or just like them in general because thats your thing, then you have to go out and see ‘Flash of Genius'. What a wonderful film this was. It's one of those movies you can just sit back relax, watch, and enjoy.
This review contains spoilers but its based on a true story so the out come is already out there and has been for some time now.
You may or may not know that ‘Flash of Genius' is based on a true story about a man named Bob Kearns. Dennis invented the intermittent windshield wiper. I know it may not sound that interesting. That's what I thought when I first heard about it. But this is a truly unique story. Bob brought his wiper invention to Ford. They made a deal and Ford backed out taking Bobs invention plans with them. A few months later he noticed his wipers being used on Ford cars. Leave it to a giant corporations to steal from the little man. When Bob saw this he didn't back down, he stood up and fought back. This one guy took on the Ford Motor Company and won. This guy sacrificed so much and dedicated 12 years of his life to beat the giant corporation.
‘Flash of Genius' is an incredibly inspiring movie. At the same time the choices that Bob had to make cost him a great deal. He put his family through so much and it cost him dearly. I really felt sorry for what his family had to go through because he just couldn't let it go. I'm not saying he should have let it go either! The guy accomplished something that everyone told him was impossible, so that's got to count for something.
One of my favorite parts of the movie is near the end. Bob chooses to represent himself in court against Ford and there is a scene where he has to cross examine himself. It's quite amusing.
This was a very well made film. It was directed by Marc Abram who is mostly known for his producing credits this is actually his first directing gig and I think he did a pretty good job. One of the next movies he is producing is ‘Creature from the Black Lagoon'.
Greg Kinnear as Bob Kearns was inspired casting. He was so good in this role. He had to be, the guy was the foundation of the film! After watching this film, I have to say that Kinnear is one of the best actors in Hollywood and he is totally underrated. This is one of the best performances I have seen all year. There have been very few memorable ones. I hope to see him get nominated for best actor this year at the Oscars.
Everyone else in the cast was great as well. The only other biggest role in the film was Lauren Graham as Phyllis Kearns and she did a great job as well. Every other character was not in the movie very long and had small roles played by character actors. You'll know them when you see them.
‘Flash of Genius' was a great film. I know there are other movies out there that you want to go out and see but if you get the opportunity I highly recommend it.
Whatever movie you go see always remember to enjoy your time at the movies.