Flash of Genius is a biographical drama film that was released in 2008 and directed by Marc Abraham. The movie centers around Robert Kearns, a college professor and inventor who believes that he is owed credit and compensation from the auto industry for inventing intermittent windshield wipers.
The story begins in the 1960s, where Kearns is shown as a devoted family man and inventor who is constantly tinkering with different projects in his basement. Kearns comes up with the idea for an intermittent windshield wiper, which he believes will improve driving safety and be a valuable addition to cars.
Kearns approaches several automobile companies with his invention, but is initially met with rejection. However, Ford takes an interest in Kearns' invention, and offers him a deal to manufacture the wipers. Kearns is excited at the prospect of seeing his invention in millions of cars, but as the deal with Ford progresses, Kearns begins to feel that he is being taken advantage of.
Kearns discovers that Ford has been using his invention without giving him credit, and he decides to take legal action against the company. Kearns' fight for recognition and compensation is a long and arduous one, and tests his strength and relationships with his family members.
Flash of Genius features outstanding performances from Greg Kinnear, who portrays Kearns with humility and determination, and Lauren Graham, who plays Kearns' wife, Phyllis. The movie is a gripping and inspiring tale of an inventor's struggle for recognition, and a reminder of the importance of preserving one's intellectual property.