Flubber

Flubber is a 1997 movie with a whimsical science fiction premise that is aptly encapsulated in its very title. Offering an abundance of good-old-fashioned slapstick humor, the movie stars the inimitable Robin Williams in one of his most memorable on-screen roles, complemented by terrific performances by Marcia Gay Harden and Christopher McDonald. The movie is a remake of the 1961 Disney classic "The Absent-Minded Professor". Translating an almost supernatural concept into a storyline that both children and adults can enjoy, Flubber combines comedy, science fiction, and a human touch into a refreshing tangle.

The film’s plot revolves around the travails of absent-minded professor Philip Brainard, played with skillful brilliance by Robin Williams. Dr. Brainard is so engrossed in his scientific experiments that he often loses track of the world around him, including forgetting his own wedding — twice! Marcia Gay Harden plays the role of Sara Jean Reynolds, his irritated but still enamored fiancée, who is also the president of the financially struggling college where Brainard works. Christopher McDonald essays the antagonist, Wilson Croft, who is Brainard's academic rival and wishes to steal both his job and fiancée.

One fine day, in a spectacular twist of events, Dr. Brainard stumbles upon an amazing invention - a lively, green, rubber-like substance with an ability to harness an enormous amount of energy. He lovingly names it 'Flubber' (a playful combination of 'flying rubber'). The Flubber, while lacking a conventional sense of consciousness, displays an uncanny sense of humor and a knack for causing trouble. It has the miraculous ability to change formation, bounce with an ever-increasing velocity, and even help objects, and people, fly, making for some seriously fun and chaotic situations.

As Dr. Brainard begins discovering the potential of his creation, he hopes to use it somehow to save his beleaguered college from closing down due to a monetary crisis. Meanwhile, he navigates the mounting impatience of his fiancée and tricky maneuvers of his scheming rival, all while trying to keep control over the nearly uncontainable nature of Flubber.

Flubber captures the childlike charm of a fantastical invention and its unintended consequences. It often delves into the unbelievable yet keeps it reined in with the down-to-earth personality of Robin Williams' character. His comical missteps, coupled with his endearing vulnerability, draw the audience in, immersing them in this bizarre yet captivating world of scientific chaos.

One of the highlights of the movie is how animation and live-action are blended to bring the character of Flubber to life. This, in coordination with the remarkable special effects used throughout the film, help create a visually engaging and comically enchanting atmosphere that holds its own even today.

Directed by Les Mayfield and produced by Disney, Flubber has its bucket full of laugh-out-loud moments and comic capers involving Robin Williams and the eccentric, energetic blob of Flubber. Whether it's bouncing around causing hilarity or helping in gravity-defying feats, it's safe to say that Flubber becomes the center of attention quickly.

Moreover, the romantic subplot between Dr. Brainard and Sara Jean Reynolds adds another layer of depth and engagement to the storyline. The chemistry between Williams and Harden brings warmth to their characters and lends credibility to their complicated relationship.

In conclusion, Flubber is a pleasing blend of comedy, science fiction, and romance, with its unique take on what happens when a scientific experiment goes comically awry. Anchored by a lovable performance by Robin Williams and bolstered by a stellar cast, it manages to infuse magic and mischief into every frame. It's an enjoyable journey from start to finish and is bound to stir imagination while offering a healthy dose of laughter. Ideal for family viewing, Flubber promises a roller coaster fun-ride with a charming mix of excitement, humor, and heart.