“What About Bob?” is a 1991 comedy film about the amusing and manic journey of a neurotic patient named Bob who attaches himself to his therapist, Dr. Leo Marvin, like Velcro. Bob’s relentless pursuit for emotional stability disrupts the tranquil life of Dr. Marvin, triggering a hilarious battle of wills between the two. As Bob weasels his way into Dr. Marvin’s life, chaos ensues, leading to unexpected laughter and heartwarming moments. With its witty dialogue and quirky characters, this movie provides an entertaining and lighthearted ride filled with laughter and relatable madness.
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Review
“What About Bob? A Hilarious Journey that Strikes a Chord with Every Bob Out There”
Introduction:
In the realm of comedy, there are movies that tickle our funny bones, and then there are films that make us laugh uncontrollably until tears stream down our faces. “What About Bob?”, directed by Frank Oz and released in 1991, falls into the latter category. This uproariously funny film has since become a cult classic, leaving an indelible mark on comedy movie lovers worldwide. Join me as we dive into the world of Bob Wiley and explore the magic behind this timeless gem.
Storyline:
“What About Bob?” takes us on a wild journey alongside Bob Wiley, portrayed brilliantly by Bill Murray, as he seeks help for his multitude of phobias from Dr. Leo Marvin, played by Richard Dreyfuss. Despite his expertise in psychiatric practices, Dr. Marvin is soon driven to the edge by Bob’s relentless pursuit to be his patient both inside and outside the therapy room.
Plot:
The plot unfolds with Dr. Leo Marvin releasing his book titled “Baby Steps,” just as he thinks he’s found some respite from Bob’s clingy presence at Lake Winnipesaukee—Bob unexpectedly shows up uninvited at their family vacation retreat. Chaos ensues as Bob endears himself to every member of Dr. Marvin’s family, while the good doctor is pushed to emotional extremes, questioning his own sanity throughout.
Characters:
The clash between the polar-opposite personalities of Bob Wiley and Dr. Leo Marvin forms the comedic backbone of this film. Bill Murray expertly portrays Bob with subtle facial expressions and impeccable timing, making him an endearing character who viewers can’t help but root for. Richard Dreyfuss shines as Dr. Marvin; his exasperation slowly escalating throughout the movie keeps audiences in splits.
Dialogue:
“What About Bob?” boasts a memorable script filled with quotable lines that have become part of pop-culture lexicon. From Bob’s iconic catchphrase, “I’m doing the work, I’m baby-stepping,” to Dr. Marvin’s seething rant of “There are two types of people in this world: those who like Neil Diamond and those who don’t,” the dialogue keeps audiences engaged and craving more.
Acting:
The on-screen chemistry between Bill Murray and Richard Dreyfuss is undeniably electric. Murray’s knack for comedic timing coupled with Dreyfuss’ ability to convey frustration magnificently creates an unforgettable dynamic between their characters. The supporting cast, including Julie Hagerty as Dr. Marvin’s wife and Charlie Korsmo as his son, complements the leads’ performances perfectly, adding depth to the film.
Popularity and Legacy:
Upon its release, “What About Bob?” was met with critical acclaim, earning praise for its comedic brilliance and memorable performances. The film resonated with audiences worldwide and has since gained a dedicated following that continues to celebrate its timeless humor through re-watches and countless online discussions.
Awards:
While “What About Bob?” didn’t receive widespread recognition at award ceremonies during its initial release, its enduring popularity has solidified its place in comedy movie history. The film’s brilliance lies not in accolades but in its ability to captivate audiences across generations.
Opinion:
“What About Bob?” offers a refreshing escape from reality through its eccentric yet relatable characters, providing cathartic laughter while encouraging us to embrace our quirks. It reminds viewers that everyone deserves understanding and compassion, even when we seem at our most bizarre.
Cinematography:
Frank Oz masterfully captures the essence of each scene throughout the film with cleverly framed shots and attention to detail. Whether it be showcasing the picturesque beauty of Lake Winnipesaukee or highlighting the facial expressions that convey a spectrum of emotions, the cinematography enhances the movie’s comedic impact.
Scenes:
The film is packed with memorable scenes that will leave you in stitches. From Bob’s unforgettable introduction as he bursts into Dr. Marvin’s office to his triumphantly sailing away in Dr. Marvin’s therapy boat, each scene builds upon the hilarity of the previous one, resulting in a laugh-out-loud experience.
Soundtrack:
The film’s soundtrack seamlessly intertwines mood-setting music with comedic elements, solidifying its place in enhancing the overall cinematic experience. A perfect example is “It Don’t Come Easy” by Ringo Starr, which perfectly encapsulates Bob’s journey and lightens the atmosphere during key moments.
Analysis:
Beneath its uproarious exterior, “What About Bob?” subtly explores themes of mental health and personal growth. The contrasting journeys of Bob and Dr. Marvin demonstrate that acceptance and understanding are often found through unexpected connections.
Conclusion:
“What About Bob?” remains a timeless comedy that has stood the test of time. Its ability to make us laugh while delivering profound messages about human connection continues to captivate audiences today as much as it did three decades ago. So if you find yourself needing an injection of pure laughter, join Bob on his journey and discover why this movie remains an iconic gem in comedy cinema history.
Technical Data
- Release : 1991-05-17
- Runtime : 100
- Genre : Comedy
- Cast : Bill Murray as Bob Wiley, Richard Dreyfuss as Dr. Leo Marvin, Julie Hagerty as Fay Marvin, Charlie Korsmo as Sigmund “Siggy” Marvin, Kathryn Erbe as Anna Marvin
- Crew : Bernard Williams as Co-Producer, Tom Schulman as Screenplay, Michael Ballhaus as Director of Photography, Bernie Pollack as Costume Design, James W. Skotchdopole as First Assistant Director
- Revenue : $63,710,000
- Budget : $35,000,000
- Company : Touchstone Pictures, Touchwood Pacific Partners 1
- Popularity : 14.63
- Summary : Before going on vacation, self-involved psychiatrist Dr. Leo Marvin has the misfortune of taking on a new patient: Bob Wiley. An exemplar of neediness and a compendium of phobias, Bob follows Marvin to his family’s country house. Dr. Marvin tries to get him to leave; the trouble is, everyone loves Bob. As his oblivious patient makes himself at home, Dr. Marvin loses his professional composure and, before long, may be ready for the loony bin himself.
- Tagline : Bob’s a special kind of friend. The kind that drives you crazy!
