Simon

Simon is a unique and delightfully playful comedy-drama released in 1980. Encapsulating the comic genius of Alan Arkin, the charm of Madeline Kahn, and the intangible quirk of Austin Pendleton, this film is a surprising gem from the late 20th century, filled with eccentric humor and thought-provoking satire.

In the film, Alan Arkin stars as Simon, a highly intelligent but socially secluded psychology professor. Preferring the company of his studies over the petty distractions of the everyday world, Simon has dedicated his entire life to comprehension of the human mind. However, his world of facts, figures, and measured insights is turned upside down when he becomes the innocuous target of a group of scientific brains known as the Think Tank. Simon’s world shifts dramatically from a steady pace to being excitingly volatile and unpredictable.

The Think Tank is a group of elite scientists operating under a government grant, conducting experiments to explore and push the boundaries of human behavior and social manipulation. After years of serious research, boredom begins to overshadow their work leading to them seeking entertainment by pulling a colossal prank on unknowing Simon. The Think Tank ultimately zeroes in on Simon for their grand scheme due to his naive persona which makes him an ideal victim, opening up a whole new world of possibilities for the intertwined comic and dramatic scenes.

In a grand experimental spectacle, these scientists manage to convince Simon that he is actually an alien. To accomplish this, they use an array of technological masterpieces like holograms to create a 'Spaceship' and manufacture scenarios meant to trick Simon into believing that he is not of this Earth. It's a grand deception meant to create chaos and laughter, filled with scientific jargon and technological advancements that still manage to feel plausible despite their inherent ludicrousness.

Madeline Kahn, as Dr. Cynthia Malloy, represents a crucial member of the Think Tank. Initially, she's part of the prank on the professor but as the plot unfolds, Cynthia develops a soft corner for the amiable and oblivious Simon. Their chemistry brings a breath of fresh air to the plot and also introduces the blossoming of a confusing yet romantic subplot. Meanwhile, Austin Pendleton as Fichandler, the head of the Think Tank, wonderfully executes his role, putting up a show of absolute brilliance and wit, guiding his team in their grand deception.

As Simon embarks on his journey of self-realization, he grows as a character. What was initially an eccentric, clueless academic becomes a potent symbol of self-belief and resilience. He becomes not just a character, but a mirror for the audience to reflect upon their individual insecurities and the influence social conditions have on the perception of their reality.

It’s noteworthy how beautifully director Marshall Brickman intertwines comedy, drama, psychological mystery, and social satire into the movie. The plot is undeniably eccentric in many ways but it captivates the audience with its unusual premise, high-quality humor, and powerful performances. Simon provokes its viewers to question modern society's manipulation by the media, propaganda, and how easily individuals could be duped into believing even the most absurd ideas.

The crisp cinematography beautifully captures the happenings and the production design successfully manages to create a believable world that balances scientific experimentation with the mundane everyday reality. It gives the movie that quintessential '80s vibe but with an underlying sense of something more, something different, something alien.

Overall, Simon is a fascinating blend of multiple genres, representing a peculiar wavelength of humor that was and still is rare to come across on the big screen. One can easily argue that it was well ahead of its time, using high concept ideas to tell a humorous yet enlightened story. The performances are captivating, with Alan Arkin stealing the show as the lovably naive Simon. It's a film that, despite its age, will still keep you laughing and thinking long after the credits roll. If you cherish intelligent comedies, then Simon is an exploration worth undertaking.