Synopsis: Based on the true story of Professor, and part-time inventor, Robert Kearns’ battle with the automobile industry; namely Ford. The movie tells the tale of how one man fought one of the largest company’s in the world to receive credit for his invention they took credit for as their own.
Release Date: October 3, 2008 MPAA Rating: PG-13
Genre(s): Drama, Autobiographical
Film Review
Production
The story is interesting, and watching him fight for credit is dramatic. Overall though the film just does not do much for the viewer. You are never fully emotionally invested in his fight, and you actually find yourself questioning his actions far to many times as you should a protagonist. Watching the little man succeed is always fulfilling but getting to that point in the film is slow and unmoving.
Acting
Greg Kinnear is the one shining light in this film with his portrayal of Bob Kearns. He plays a man with a tortured soul, who has been beaten down by the more powerful, had his pride stepped on, but keeps on fighting after he has lost everything for what is right. This performance is all about subtlety for Bob Kearns is not a vivacious and vibrant man. Kinnear pulls this off with great ease and is able to come across as a serious individual while delivering lines of great comedic timing. He is both funny and endearing, and a delight to watch on screen.
Production Design
This is a modern day period piece. The problem is that nothing actually “feels” like it is in the 1960’s. It is more as if the present day is pretending to be the past, for a brief moment, and failing. The time period feels undefined, and the design only minimally reflects the era; sure the cars are accurate and various other items. You just do not feel like you have been transported back into that time and place.
Cast and Crew
- Director(s): Marc Abraham
- Producer(s): Philip RailsbackGreg Kinnear (Bob Kearns)
- Screenwriter(s): Lauren Graham (Phyllis Kearns)Alan Alda (Gregory Lawson)Dermot Mulroney (Gil Privick)
- Story:
- Cast: Jill SavittDante SpinottiHugo Luczyc-Wyhowski
- Editor(s): Luis Sequeira
- Cinematographer: Aaron ZigmanCustom Film EffectsMr. X
- Production Designer(s):
- Costume Designer:
- Casting Director(s): Available on Varése Sarabande
- Music Score:
- Music Performed By:
- Country Of Origin: USA
