The Professor and the Madman

Everything about this movie was done perfectly, from the amazing cast/acting to the masterful storytelling, and above all, just the story by itself is astonishingly satisfying.
Although I've watched this movie in late 2021, it is undoubtedly one of the best I've ever seen.

I am not a Sean Penn fan, but, here, as the titular "madman" he deftly walks the tightrope between chewing the scenery, and sensitively portraying the inexplicable conflict and struggle one would have had keeping their demons at bay, if they were suffering from schizophrenia in the 19th century.

Mel Gibson, who has thankfully put many of his own personal demons behind him, portrays the professor, who pursues his own "white whale", that is, the seemingly impossible task of compiling every single word known to man at that time. How easy it is to take for granted, in a time where you can simply type a few letters into ones phone and be rewarded with a myriad of words and their definitions, that once we didn't even have ANY way to confirm the meaning or spelling or correct usage of a word. This is the task that James Murray took on, and that William Minor, in his battle to find a semblance of sanity aided him with.

Natalie Dormer shines as Eliza, the illiterate wife who now finds herself struggling to survive with her children, after her husband falls victim to Dr. Minor's madness. Yet, somehow she is able to transcend her hate and anger, see the humanity in the madman, and find forgiveness in her heart for his transgression.

Yes, the story unfolds slowly and deliberately, but, if you are a lover of words, and great acting, then, this one is worth the watch.

I thought this movie was brilliant! All the actors' performances helped give this story feeling. Especially Gibson, Penn, and Dormer ... their performances touched me. Without them, this story would've been just that ... a story. I'm really glad I decided to watch this tonight. Highly recommend!

Sean Penn is superb...worth watching just for his "Oscar" winning performance! Which it would've been if not for the squabble that Mel Gibson and Farhad Safinia had with Icon Productions.

What a movie! I haven't seen this good piece of art in a while. Thank you.

A masterpiece. A poem. Just wonderful. Thank you for that.

A very compelling movie that had me quite tearful on several occasions. Wonderful acting from the entire cast.

I had high expectations before watching this film, as the lead characters are played by two of the best actors I know. Simply put, Mel Gibson and Sean Penn are the perfect choices for their roles – they deliver outstanding performances that elevate the movie to something extraordinary.

It’s fascinating how a seemingly dull subject – the creation of the first English dictionary – becomes a story of love, friendship, and forgiveness. The film is based on a true story, and the life of Dr. William Chester Minor, alongside his friendship with James Murray, is both beautiful and deeply moving.

Sean Penn is magnificent as Dr. Minor. His performance is a masterclass in character portrayal, where every nuance reflects Minor’s torment and brilliance. It’s a performance that lingers, a lesson in how a character can be elevated to a masterpiece.

Mel Gibson fits perfectly in his role as James Murray, bringing a commanding yet nuanced presence. The dynamic between Gibson and Penn is incredible and one of the film’s greatest strengths.

The film also delivers unforgettable scenes. Particularly powerful is the moment of reconciliation between Dr. Minor and widow Merrett, where love and sorrow overlap beautifully and heartbreakingly. Another striking, albeit shocking, moment is when Minor, in utter despair, mutilates himself – a harrowing depiction of his inner suffering.

Ratings:
• Story: 8/10
• Acting: 12/10
• Settings: 8/10

Overall Rating: 9/10

The Professor and the Madman is a unique and powerful film that exceeds expectations. With a story based on true events, brilliant acting performances, and a beautiful portrayal of human forgiveness, this is a movie that truly gives you chills of delight.

The interpretation of Mel Gibson and Sean Penn is simply magnificent. A film about deep forgiveness after a great pain, a friendship sealed by the love for the knowledge affordable to all, and last but not least the madness as a human condition, not an incurable illness.

[spoiler] "If not love...then what?" [/spoiler]

I welcome anything that Mel Gibson does, especially in this day of comic hero movies!

I think the story is very well written. Acting is first rate as well, Mel Gibson and Sean Penn are both fantastic.

Too bad that the lawsuit will dim the prospects of this movie most likely few people will see it and then they will be shocked on Oscar night. Typically, these biopics of sorts are dry and slow moving. This is not one of them. It's fast paced, good dialogue. Fair share of drama and English uptightness. Great movie!