Father of Invention is a 2010 comedy-drama film directed by Trent Cooper. The protagonist of the story is Robert Axle (played by Kevin Spacey), an eccentric inventor who once had it all: money, fame, and success. But everything changed when one of his products, the "Ab-Clicker," malfunctioned and injured thousands of people, leading to his imprisonment for ten years.
Upon his release, Axle finds himself broke and estranged from his family, including his ex-wife Lorraine (Virginia Madsen) and his daughter Claire (Camilla Belle). Determined to make a comeback, he sets his sights on a new invention - a spray that can instantly grow grass on any surface. He enlists the help of his former business partner, Lily (Heather Graham), and his loyal assistant, Eddie (Johnny Knoxville), to get his product to market.
However, Axle soon realizes that his biggest obstacle is not the product itself but his fractured relationships with those around him. His daughter, in particular, harbors deep resentment and anger towards him, blaming him for abandoning her and her mother for years. As he tries to win her back and make amends, Axle is forced to face the consequences of his past actions and come to terms with his own arrogance and selfishness.
Father of Invention explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the importance of family. Through its witty humor and poignant moments, the film shows that sometimes the greatest invention is not a product but a second chance to make things right.