The Professor and the Madman

Name: The Professor and the Madman
Genre: History, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Released: 2019-03-07
Duration: 2 h 4 min
Rating: 7.1
Cast: Mel Gibson, Sean Penn, Natalie Dormer, Eddie Marsan, Jennifer Ehle

Aug 3, 2026

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7.1

The Professor and the Madman

2019 2h 4m

History, Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Witness the fascinating true story of words that changed the world. In The Professor and the Madman, two brilliant minds collide in a battle of wits that would shape language forever. With unparalleled access to the archives of Oxford University, this gripping drama uncovers the hidden history behind one of the most iconic dictionaries ever created.

WORTH A LOOK

With a well-documented true story and access to Oxford University’s archives, The Professor and the Madman delivers on its promise of fascinating historical intrigue, albeit in a manner that feels somewhat predictable and lacking in dramatic tension. Its 7.5/10 weighted rating from over 1,295 votes suggests a generally satisfying viewing experience for fans of period dramas and language history.

Watch the Trailer

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historical obsessive isolated dark intellectual

Cast Mel Gibson, Sean Penn, Natalie Dormer, Eddie Marsan, Jennifer Ehle

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the movie about?

The movie is based on the story of Professor James Murray compiling words for the first edition of the Oxford English Dictionary and receiving over 10,000 entries from a patient at Broadmoor Criminal Lunatic Asylum, Dr. William Minor.

Who stars in The Professor and the Madman?

The movie features an ensemble cast including Mel Gibson, Sean Penn, Natalie Dormer, Eddie Marsan, and Jennifer Ehle.

How long does the movie run?

The movie runs for 124 minutes (2h 4m).

Where can The Professor and the Madman be streamed?

Availability varies by region, but the movie is available on Amazon Prime Video.

Is The Professor and the Madman worth watching?

This movie may appeal to fans of historical dramas and mystery enthusiasts, as it offers a unique blend of these genres and explores themes of language and identity.