The Professor and the Madman

The Professor and the Madman (2019) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

The Professor and the Madman (2019) is a historical drama directed by Farhad Safinia and based on the true story of the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary. Starring Mel Gibson, Sean Penn, and Natalie Dormer, the film explores the fascinating and tumultuous journey of the dictionary’s development through the lives of its key contributors. This review will delve into the film’s plot, themes, and where to stream, rent, or purchase it online in the United States.

Plot Summary

The Professor and the Madman tells the story of two men who played pivotal roles in the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary (OED). The film is set in the late 19th century and revolves around two central figures:

1. Professor James Murray (Mel Gibson): An esteemed academic who is tasked with compiling and editing the OED. Murray is depicted as a dedicated and meticulous scholar with a passion for language and lexicography.
2. Dr. William Chester Minor (Sean Penn): An American army surgeon and convicted murderer who is institutionalized for his mental illness. Despite his incarceration, Minor contributes thousands of definitions and citations to the OED, becoming an invaluable source for Murray’s project.

The film chronicles the unlikely collaboration between Murray and Minor, highlighting the challenges and breakthroughs they encounter. It delves into Minor’s tragic backstory, including his struggles with mental illness and the circumstances that led to his imprisonment. The film also explores the profound impact of their work on the dictionary and their personal lives.

Themes and Analysis

The Professor and the Madman explores several themes through its historical and dramatic narrative:

1. Redemption and Forgiveness: The film delves into themes of redemption and forgiveness through Minor’s character. His contributions to the OED serve as a means of atonement for his past actions, and the story explores the possibility of finding redemption through meaningful work.
2. The Power of Language: The creation of the OED represents the power and importance of language in capturing human knowledge and culture. The film highlights the dedication required to document and define language comprehensively.
3. Mental Illness and Isolation: The portrayal of Dr. Minor’s mental illness provides a poignant exploration of the challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues. The film addresses the isolation and stigma associated with mental illness and the impact it has on both the individual and their relationships.
4. Collaboration and Friendship: The relationship between Murray and Minor underscores the theme of collaboration and the idea that great achievements can come from unexpected partnerships. Their mutual respect and shared commitment to the OED illustrate the power of collaboration in achieving extraordinary goals.

Farhad Safinia’s direction emphasizes the historical significance of the story while providing an intimate look at the characters’ personal struggles and triumphs. The film balances historical detail with emotional depth, creating a compelling narrative that engages viewers.

Mel Gibson and Sean Penn deliver powerful performances, bringing depth and complexity to their roles. Gibson’s portrayal of Professor Murray captures the scholarly dedication and personal struggles of the character, while Penn’s portrayal of Dr. Minor provides a nuanced depiction of mental illness and redemption.

Where to Watch The Professor and the Madman Online

For those interested in watching The Professor and the Madman, there are several options available for streaming, rental, and purchase in the United States.

Streaming Services

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • The Professor and the Madman is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Prime members can watch the film at no additional cost as part of their subscription.

Rental/Purchase Services

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • The film is also available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Renting typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing the film in HD is usually priced at $12.99.
2. Apple iTunes
   • The Professor and the Madman can be rented or purchased on Apple iTunes. Renting generally costs $3.99, and purchasing it is around $14.99.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
   • Google Play Movies & TV offers the film for rent or purchase. Pricing is similar to other digital platforms, providing another option for viewers.
4. Vudu
   • Vudu has The Professor and the Madman available for rent or purchase. The prices are comparable to other platforms, and Vudu often has promotions that may offer discounts.
5. YouTube Movies
   • YouTube Movies provides The Professor and the Madman for rent or purchase, with prices typically in line with other digital services.

Conclusion

The Professor and the Madman (2019) is a compelling historical drama that explores the remarkable story of the Oxford English Dictionary’s creation and the lives of the men behind it. With its engaging narrative, strong performances, and exploration of themes related to redemption, language, and mental illness, the film offers a rich and moving cinematic experience.

With streaming options on Amazon Prime Video and rental/purchase options on platforms like Amazon, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, Vudu, and YouTube Movies, accessing this historical drama is both convenient and straightforward. Whether you’re interested in the film’s historical context or its emotional depth, The Professor and the Madman provides a memorable and engaging viewing experience.