Flash of Genius - B-

On DVD and Pay Cable

In the early 1960s, Bob Kearns had an idea for the “intermittent” windshield wiper. Before his invention, wipers moved continuously whether there was a downpour or a drizzle. He had his patent stolen (basically) by the big 3 Detroit car companies and spent over a decade in legal battles for recognition, usually representing himself. This film focuses on his first battle with Ford Motors and the effect the trials had on his wife and 6 (count ‘em!) kids. A talky courtroom drama about patent rights with dabbles in mental illness and family sacrifice? Zzzzzzzzz, right? Not exactly - Greg Kinnear does an admirable job as Kearns, so likable that you can’t help but relate to his struggles …

The film works best toward the end (as it should be) as his kids mature before our very eyes. His refusal to accept out of court settlements strengthens his nobility, but you can’t help but wonder how much the filmmakers glossed over his mental illness and divorce. And it’s very predictable – they wouldn’t make this film in this day and age if he lost, right? The film needed more subtext as well (the borderline between genius and insanity, etc.), but mostly plays it safe, opting for a feel-good ending that works. First time director Marc Abraham has produced many films (including Children of Men) and serves the story well, but his directorial style could have used a flash of Alfonso Cuaron’s genius. B-