What About Bob?

What About Bob?

Year: 1991

Runtime: 99 min

Language: English

Director: Frank Oz

Comedy

In this sidesplitting comedy, self-absorbed psychiatrist Dr. Leo Marvin's tranquil vacation is disrupted by the arrival of his needy new patient, Bob Wiley. As Bob becomes an integral part of the family's country retreat, Dr. Marvin's professional façade crumbles, and he finds himself descending into chaos alongside his lovable but annoying patient.

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Timeline & Setting – What About Bob? (1991)
Explore the full timeline and setting of What About Bob? (1991). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie is set in contemporary times, showcasing the societal norms and challenges of modern life related to mental health. Themes of therapy and personal growth resonate strongly within this time frame, reflecting ongoing cultural discussions about psychological well-being.

Location

New York City, Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

New York City serves as the initial backdrop for Bob Wiley's struggles with his phobias, representing his chaotic inner world. Lake Winnipesaukee, known for its stunning views and serene atmosphere, contrasts sharply with Bob's life in the city, providing a space for transformation and connection with nature.

🏙️ City 🌊 Lake

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:52

Main Characters – What About Bob? (1991)
Meet the key characters of What About Bob? (1991), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Bob Wiley (Bill Murray)

Bob is an endearing character plagued by a multitude of phobias that hinder his daily life. His vulnerability is counterbalanced by his warmth and charm, which eventually resonate with those around him. Bob's journey from dependence to self-awareness highlights personal growth in the face of challenges.

😰 Anxiety 💼 Psychology 🏖️ Vacation

Dr. Leo Marvin (Richard Dreyfuss)

Dr. Leo Marvin is a self-centered therapist whose initial excitement turns to frustration as Bob intrudes upon his life. His struggle with jealousy and control issues exposes his deeper insecurities. Over the course of the film, Leo's negligence and desperation lead to his downfall, contrasting sharply with Bob's growth.

🩺 Therapy 😒 Jealousy 🎭 Comedy

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:52

Major Themes – What About Bob? (1991)
Explore the central themes of What About Bob? (1991), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🧠 Mental Health

The film delves deeply into themes of mental health, exploring Bob's journey through anxiety and phobias. It reflects the complexities of therapeutic relationships and the importance of empathy and support in overcoming personal struggles. Bob's evolution emphasizes the value of understanding and connection in healing.

🌪️ Chaos and Control

Chaos plays a significant role in the film, particularly through the character of Dr. Leo Marvin, whose attempts to control the situation continuously backfire. The contrasting approaches of Bob's open-heartedness against Leo's rigidity highlight the chaos that often accompanies personal and professional lives when dealing with mental health.

💖 Relationships

The dynamics between Bob, Leo, and their respective families illustrate the importance of relationships in personal growth. Bob's connections foster his development, while Leo's jealousy and eventual descent into desperation showcase how personal relationships can influence one's mental state and perceptions.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:52

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