The Professor and the Madman (2019) is a historical drama film that delves into the fascinating and often tumultuous creation of the Oxford English Dictionary (OED). Based on the book The Professor and the Madman: A Tale of Murder, Insanity, and the Making of the Oxford English Dictionary by Simon Winchester, the film explores the collaboration between two very different men who contributed to this monumental work.

Synopsis

The film tells the true story of James Murray (played by Mel Gibson), a professor and lexicographer who is tasked with compiling the OED. He enlists the help of William Chester Minor (played by Sean Penn), a brilliant but troubled American Civil War veteran who is confined to an asylum for murder. As they work together on the dictionary, their lives intertwine in unexpected ways, revealing themes of friendship, genius, and madness.

Key elements of the plot include:

Murray’s struggle to create a comprehensive dictionary that captures the richness of the English language.

Minor’s contributions to the dictionary, which stem from his extensive reading and knowledge, despite his tragic circumstances.

The societal challenges they face, including the stigma around mental illness and the complexities of their personal lives.

The Professor and the Madman received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for the performances of Gibson and Penn, particularly their portrayal of the complex relationship between the two men. The film’s exploration of language, madness, and the human condition resonated with some audiences, though others felt it lacked depth in certain areas.