Trailers
Description
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.
Starring
Awards
Key opinion
What About Bob? is widely regarded as a classic, feel-good comedy anchored by the exceptional chemistry between Bill Murray and Richard Dreyfuss. While some viewers find the premise intrusive and the characters irritating, most appreciate the film's unique blend of humor, heart, and sharp satire on the psychiatrist-patient dynamic.
| Acting | The comedic chemistry between Bill Murray and Richard Dreyfuss is universally praised as a highlight of the genre. | |
| Direction | Frank Oz's direction effectively balances lighthearted absurdity with a nuanced, often biting satire of the psychology profession. | |
| Screenplay | The screenplay provides a clever, well-crafted narrative that turns the traditional therapist-patient power dynamic on its head. | |
| Humor | The film's humor divides audiences: some find it to be a timeless, uplifting experience, while others perceive the protagonist's intrusive behavior as genuinely grating or problematic rather than funny. | |
| Theme | Viewer perception of the character dynamics is polarized, with some seeing the film as a heartwarming story of personal growth and others viewing Bob as a manipulative antagonist whose boundary-crossing actions go frustratingly unpunished. |